Spotlight: John Estes, Doctoral Students

Before Mizzou: Earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Evansville and a master's degree in interdisciplinary studies from Wheaton College. John had five years of experience teaching middle school and high school students before he came to Mizzou.

John won a 2006 Excellence in Teaching with Technology award for his creative use of online resources in the courses he teaches as a graduate assistant.

At Mizzou: John is pursuing a doctoral degree in English with an emphasis in poetry. His funding comes from a fellowship and a teaching assistantship, and he says that the stipends and teaching opportunities in his program are excellent.

I believe that learning happens through the relationships we have with people. That’s why I came to Missouri — I wanted to study with certain people. … Working with the other poets, both peers and professors, has been gratifying.

I've been pleased, especially as I’ve gotten done with my course work, to feel like I can still carve out my own niche and pursue my interests.

There’s the notion that all of life encompasses learning, and that curiosity should be the drive. … Insofar as I’m able, I try to bring that spirit to my teaching.

(Photo by Jim Yates, journalism master's candidate)