My Unique Approach to Education

“Emphasize how communication skills fit into every subject. Encourage and teach students how to develop and sharpen their writing skills not only for the purpose of completing future assignments, but to more effectively use their voice and express ideas in everyday life.”

– Mr. Paul Tooke

Brief Biography:

I was born in 1996 in Garland, Texas, and still live here. After graduating high school, I attended Collin College and Dallas College, where I met an advisor who recommended I choose a communications-related major due to my fear of math. While taking writing courses at Dallas College, two of my professors especially encouraged me to write more. I recall receiving a final essay back from a history professor who had the comment, “Only perfect score in the class, please pursue writing!” This meant the world to me. After bouncing around community colleges and struggling through both high school and many college subjects, I had found something that could make me stand out. When it came time for me to apply to UNT, the place my parents met, I kept communications studies as my major but added journalism as a minor.

While attending UNT, I interned for a few different sports news companies, served on two different church teams, and did some freelance music journalism. I got to interview NBA personnel, some bands I liked, but ultimately decided to pursue an office job of some sort. In November of 2019, I graduated and hunted for jobs throughout the COVID season. When I told my dad I was looking at college advisor positions, he recommended Amberton University.

I worked as an academic advisor for 4.5 years here before becoming a recruiter and enrollment specialist in the Summer of 2025. That session, I finished up my last 5000/6000 level COM course so I could become an adjunct professor. This was a goal I had made in the Fall of 2024 and expressed to my supervisor, Oscar Lopez, who relayed it to Dr. Palmer and Dr. Bradshaw. I’m glad they all liked the idea, because I strongly value and enjoy where I’m at now in my career.

Personal Quote:

“Treat others how you want to be treated.”