Cynthia Gonzales

Professor

“Nutrition encompasses psychology, biochemistry, physiology and anatomy. It’s a lot more than apples and bananas.”

“Coming from South Texas, I grew up in an area where nutrition wasn’t a big concern,” says Cynthia Gonzales. “Most people were just concerned with getting enough to eat. And it wasn’t until I moved away to college that my eyes were suddenly opened and I saw how absolutely important it is.”

For a year and a half, Cynthia has brought the importance of good nutrition to her SMC students. And she’s seen some dramatic changes in the classroom over that time. “I teach at least as many men as women,” she says. “And I’m seeing a lot more very serious students. When I began teaching, most people were there to fulfill prerequisites. But now, genuine interest is their motivation.”

Cynthia says that “never falling into what’s most comfortable” is critical to being a good teacher. “I always try to put myself in my students’ shoes and I ask them for their opinions about what they’re learning. Sometimes asking for feedback means biting off more than I can chew,” she says with a laugh. “But if you want the honest to God truth about things, sometimes the roughest opinions are the ones that have made the biggest difference to me as a teacher.”

Cynthia says that “everyone has been easy to work with at SMC. People are very helpful and flexible here, which makes a big difference.” She adds that “I want my students to leave my class feeling respect for what we’re mutually involved in. It’s okay with me if they feel I’m very strict or demanding,” she continues. “But I want them to know that my main goal is to teach well and be fair to everyone.”

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