Alumna uses Auburn experiences to inspire students

Sherrie Gilbert, a two-time graduate of Auburn University, is using skills learned in her courses to better the experience of students she welcomes into her own classrooms.

In her Professional Presentations class, students must put together a full program, including theme, décor, and emcees, to showcase what they learned throughout the semester rather than sitting for a final exam. This component of the class came from her desire to more fully engage students and give them a stake in the class.

“As soon as I implemented the course changes, I noticed an increase in student engagement in this course in particular. Enrollments had been low, and I wanted to do something to make this class an experience that students looked forward to,” said Gilbert. “They learned to view their classmates as a community of support and not a group of judges. They wanted to see their classmates win!”

Gilbert’s experiences in her courses in the College of Education helped frame the kind of environment she wished to create in her own classroom, including the opportunities during her doctoral program to present at academic conferences.

“My hope is for my students to leave my course feeling like they can ascend any stage and command the mic with confidence and class,” said Gilbert, who is currently searching for a space on campus with a mic and a stage to emphasize the professional atmosphere of her course.

Gilbert is currently writing her first book, “Make It Happen: A Guide to Creating a Life You Love and Not Settling for the One You Have,” and manages her business, Prep and Prose, LLC.