Andrew Quitmeyer

Affiliate Assistant Professor
 

"My biggest hope is to teach people what kinds of things are possible to do in life."

Tell us a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue a college education.

My family didn't have much money, so I actually moved out when I was 15 to go to a free public boarding high school in Illinois. I didn't really know anything about universities, but it seemed like what you did if you were a smart kid and wanted to find ways to support yourself. I love learning and teaching and so I thought college would be a great place for that.    

What does being a first-generation college student mean to you and your family?

Mostly a lot of confusion about how universities worked and the special arcane structures academia has. It means also always having your family ask when you will get "a real job.”        

What accomplishments or milestones are you most proud of so far?

Making open source tools.  

What advice would you give to other first-generation students just starting their college journeys?

Bumble around as much as possible and explore the possibility space of opportunities around you. Also try to find things you physically enjoy doing more than topics you think you like.    

How does your first-gen experience inspire or impact your approach to teaching, research, and connection to students?

My biggest hope is to teach people what kinds of things are possible to do in life. I really try to not assume that students are already familiar with various career paths or that they share the same background knowledge. I try to ask lots of questions to curate their educational experience to their needs and goals.