Waterloo recognizes outstanding teaching by graduate students
The University of Waterloo has announced the recipients of the 2024 Amit & Meena Chakma Award for Exceptional Teaching by a Student (AETS), honouring four outstanding educators who have gone above and beyond in their teaching roles. This prestigious award recognizes registered students who demonstrate excellence in teaching, including intellectual rigour, strong communication skills, and a deep commitment to supporting student learning.
This year’s winners each exemplify the values of inclusive, student-centered, and innovative teaching across diverse disciplines.
Serena McDiarmid
A PhD candidate in Pyschology, Serena is praised for creating an inclusive and engaging classroom environment where students feel comfortable participating. Her use of interactive teaching methods helps students retain complex concepts, while her application of Universal Design principles demonstrates her commitment to accessible education.
Faculty and students alike have noted Serena’s thoughtful approach to course design and her ongoing efforts to evolve and improve her teaching. As one faculty member put it, "Serena continually engages in deep reflection and revision of her teaching methods."
Alexandra Kunert
A PhD candidate in Earth and Environmental Sciences, Alexandra is celebrated for her supportive, student-focused approach and her excellence in teaching. Students describe her as someone who “did everything in her ability to help me succeed,” while faculty commend her teaching as exceeding that of seasoned instructors.
Notably, during the pandemic, Alexandra led a major initiative to redesign a rock microscopy lab for online delivery, ensuring continued hands-on learning for students in a remote environment. One of her faculty nominators stated that "Alex taught at a level that equals or exceeds many faculty members in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences. This does not reflect poorly upon the faculty members in any way, but rather highlights Alex's truly exceptional teaching skills and enthusiasm."
Ali Syed
Within the School of Pharmacy, Ali has made a lasting impression as both an educator and mentor. Known for his enthusiasm and commitment, Ali not only delivered engaging guest lectures but also provided students with additional learning resources and hosted interdisciplinary events.
Ali's teaching is described as inclusive, feedback-rich, and focused on fostering independence and problem-solving. One faculty member remarked, “I have yet to come across a guest speaker who demonstrates as much passion and enthusiasm as Ali.”
Jeremy Cohen
Jeremy, a PhD candidate in Kinesiology and Health Sciences, stands out for his creativity and student engagement. He introduced dynamic classroom strategies, such as the “snowball fight” discussion activity, which made participation more approachable. Students appreciated his thought-provoking questions and ability to create an interactive, insightful learning environment. Faculty highlighted his well-structured assessments and ability to anticipate and support student needs throughout the term.
"By consistently asking thought-provoking questions throughout his lectures, he fostered an interactive learning environment that kept students engaged and actively thinking."
Each recipient will receive a certificate and a $1,000 award in recognition of their exceptional contributions to teaching. These educators not only advance learning within their own classrooms but also enrich the broader teaching culture at Waterloo through their innovation, empathy, and excellence. Congratulations to this year's winners!