English Language and Literature
Maša Torbica, a PhD candidate in English Language and Literature, is recognized by students, peers, and faculty members for her ability to connect with students and her dedication to teaching and learning. A language barrier between instructor and student can be difficult to overcome. Torbica not only works to overcome this barrier but also has a deeper understanding of its effects, as English was not her first language as a student. She puts herself in the shoes of her students and as one-student states, she knew “that most of the class were international students whom did not speak English well, she realized that they were misunderstanding [class content] … and sought after ways to help those students understand the content better.” Torbica also supports student learning by making lessons more engaging through fun and personal activities that promote participation, and by assigning reflection journals to give students the opportunity to freely express their thoughts and opinions about the course. As another student describes, these teaching methods “not only made the lessons more memorable but made them more meaningful as well, helping to better connect to course content.” The classroom environment she creates encourages creative thinking, discussions, and influences her students in ways that helps their professional development. Torbica truly embodies the rigor, passion, and dedication of graduate teaching at Waterloo.
Torbica has been a teaching assistant for ENGL 119, and ENGL 200A. She has also been an instructor for ENGL 193, ENGL 109, ENGL 315, and a guest lecturer for ENGL 318.
