Dr. Peter Green
Professor of Psychology
Wilson, NC

On what he wants you to get from his class:
I want students to be excited and motivated and challenged. That's what any education should do. I get excited about what I teach. I might come into the classroom tired, but two minutes after I start teaching, I'm fine. That's what I want students to feel. I want them to find that spark or that interest -- and maybe that's in psychology, maybe it's in something else -- because once they've got it, they'll run with it.

On how his students get engaged:
I expect a lot from students. In class, I ask a lot of questions that get the students thinking about the material. It's a class that's more of a conversation. You can't go to sleep. You have to be paying attention. But our majors also have internships, and since we know our students, we know what they're looking for. All of our internships are based on their interests. We've had majors work in business, in prison, sports psychology, ergonomics, sleep disorders, all over the place.

On the best part about teaching:
Last spring, I took students to a professional conference and had them present their projects. Watching them answer questions about their research and carry on conversations with professionals and experienced faculty, to see the confidence they had in what they were doing -- that was wonderful to see. That's what teaching is about. You knew at that moment that these kids were ready.

On working with students:
Every student can be reached. You work with somebody and watch them struggle. And suddenly they understand it. But even more important than understanding the content is that they've learned how to learn. If I can do anything to help them reach that goal, I'm happy. And that's what's great about Barton -- we're small enough that I have the time to work with students, that I can be available for them.

Peter is a nature lover and enjoys throwing pots when he has time.