TRLS Seminars, Fall 2025

Mondays, 11:30 to 1:30 Journalism Building, Room 204

If you’re craving the chance to conceptualize a new brand from the ground up, this seminar is for you. You’ll dabble in the realm of retail bricks and mortar, analyzing a category and devising the brand concept for a boutique, restaurant, coffee house, or even a specialty store – with every choice your own, from brand name to logo, color palettes to building materials, fixtures to seating, to textiles and traffic patterns. And then, of course, you’ll tackle the launch of your innovative new brand, conveying your unique experience to prospective consumers in a 360-degree fashion. You’ll be able to tap into all communication disciplines and come away with a beautifully well-rounded mix of both physical and online pieces and platforms. You can consider the use of everything from countless forms of print, to social and content marketing, to promotions, special events, influencer marketing, pop-up experiences, sponsorships, etc.

Instructor: Kirsten Strausbaugh, Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, Advertising and Public Relations
Kirsten Strausbaugh is a seasoned advertising professional, with 25+ years of industry experience. She has a strong background in brand personality, strategic development and brand storytelling, creative ideation, and tactical execution, and she specializes in the conception and launch of new brands and the structure and execution of retail environments, with a heavy emphasis on visual assets and compelling brand communications. She has worked with numerous national brands, including The Walt Disney Company, the Coca-Cola Company, AT&T, Intel, Chick-Fil-A, The Home Depot, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Arby’s and Turner Entertainment.

Wednesdays, 10:20 to 11:10 Rhodes Animal Science Center, Room 112

Humans are made up of approximately 1 trillion cells, but we are covered with a film of 10 trillion microbes; this makes us a vehicle for the microorganisms in our environment. Bacteria and viruses have changed the course of human history, and will continue to do so. In recent years we have seen the positive impacts of bacteria on the human body and mind, and we have begun to understand how the microbes actually act as another organ system in the body. We will challenge some of your preconceptions of the relationship between you and the microbes around you—the good, the bad, and the vicious. We will also discuss some of the issues surrounding food production in this country and around the world. We will also discuss why UGA is the way it is, some of the fun, quirky history of the campus, and some of how you fit into the campus academic life!

Instructor: Todd Callaway, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Animal and Dairy Science
Todd Callaway is gut microbiologist, meaning he plays with poo….a lot. He studies how the microbial population of the gut impacts the well-being of the animal and how it affects our food security.  He has been at UGA for 8 years after 18 years of federal service.

Wednesdays, 3:00 to 5:00 Orkin, D207

This seminar introduces transfer students to the University of Georgia’s mission of teaching, research, and service through the lens of finance and corporate responsibility. Students will explore how firms engage with the public good—through employee wellbeing, environmental and social governance (ESG), and activism. The course analyzes how firms incorporate ESG metrics into capital budgeting, risk management, and investment decisions, and explores quantitative links between worker health, productivity, and financial outcomes. Students will also identify key players in the space of shareholder activism, examine activism campaign objectives from regulatory filings, and learn about the impact those actors have on Corporate America. Seminar participants will also work hands‑on with a real‑world dataset drawn from one of the course’s focus areas and learn to perform descriptive analyses using Microsoft Excel. Through engagement with student organizations, guest speakers, and UGA research spotlights, the course connects university values with pressing public issues. The seminar encourages critical reflection and helps students identify personal pathways to engage with UGA’s mission and their broader community.

Instructor: Daniel Rettl, Terry College of Business, Finance
An Assistant Professor in the Department of Finance in the Terry College of Business, Daniel Rettl has previously held teaching positions at UT Austin and Vanderbilt University. His work is in the areas of empirical corporate finance, real estate, and corporate activism. He has taught Applied Corporate Finance, International Finance, International Business, First Year Odyssey Seminars, and CURO classes, and also led study abroad trips to Austria/Germany, South Korea, and Tanzania.

Mondays and Wednesdays, 11:30 to 12:20 Miller Plant Sciences Building, Room 3203

This course will cover research in the field of genetics studies including genes, genetic variation, and heredity. We will consider how genetics research is helping to identify genetic causes of disease, to develop diagnostic tests for genetic predispositions, and to advance new therapies for the treatment of disease. We will also discuss what it means to do genetics research, explore active areas of genetics research with biomedical relevance at UGA, and outline pathways toward careers in genetics research /research adjacent fields.

Instructor: Mary Goll, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, Genetics
Mary Goll is an Associate Professor in the Department of Genetics. She earned her PhD with distinction from Columbia University, Irving Medical Center, and performed postdoctoral research at the Carnegie Institute for Sciences, Department of Embryology. Her current research uses zebrafish to study epigenetic regulation of gene expression in development and disease contexts. Her group has particular interests in the rare genetic disease Immunodeficiency, Centromere and Facial Anomalies (ICF) syndrome.

Tuesdays & Thursdays  11:10 – 12:25  Sanford Hall, Room 312

Transitioning to a new university can feel like starting over. But the reality is being a transfer student is an ASSET that can help you differentiate yourself from the crowd. In this seminar, you’ll focus on learning how to take advantage of your unique perspective and skills, helping you stand out in the classroom, clubs, organizations, and even the professional world.We’ll explore how to leverage effective communication and relationship-building to create meaningful opportunities. Together, we’ll identify key moments and opportunities where you can shine. You’ll learn to think critically about your unique contexts, analyze the audiences of your interactions, and relate to them in ways that exceed expectations, making you stand out in the crowd. No matter your communication skill level, this seminar will provide tangible, actionable strategies to build your ethos as a professional and boost your confidence as you navigate these next few years.

Instructor: Jessie Daniels,  Terry College of Business Insurance, Legal Studies and Real Estate Department
With 20+ years of experience advising, teaching, and training at large and small institutions, Jessie Daniels is most passionate about helping students grow as intentional communicators. At the Terry College of Business, she teaches Communicating for Business Effectiveness (BUSN 4900) and founded the Writing Lab@Terry to support student writing. Daniels strives to model relationship-centered communication in every interaction. When she is not teaching, you’ll find her listening to true crime podcasts or planning for future travels.

Fridays 11:30-12:20 Journalism 120

Learn how to build your professional identity now as a college student through social media and an online portfolio. We will explore the work of influencers, journalists and media outlets as you craft your digital presence using written work, photos and video. We will leverage AI for feedback and to help you post regularly. You will enhance your existing most-used social media account or develop a new account for your professional persona so that you can post regularly with your work, trends in the industry that are of interest to you and attention-grabbing storytelling, brands and reporting. You will end the semester with a curated social media account and your own digital portfolio, which you also will promote on LinkedIn. You will gain key skills and develop a professional portfolio and social media presence to serve as a powerful networking tool and stand out in the job market.

Instructor: Lori Johnston, Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, Journalism
Lori Johnston teaches journalism classes, including Reporting I, Media Savvy, Religion Reporting, and Home and Garden Reporting. Her awards include a 2024 UGA Creative Teaching Award. She is a former Associated Press writer and co-founder of Fast Copy News Service, a writing and editing business. She directs UGA’s Journalism Writing Lab and has a YouTube channel, Skills for Storytelling and Reporting. She earned her bachelor’s in journalism and MFA in narrative media writing from UGA.

Wednesdays 11:30-12:20 Baldwin Hall 104

This seminar is focused on providing transfer students in this course with the basics in our media system (including its historical development), how it interacts and informs politics in the US, and what this means to how we as individuals form opinions and behaviors related to politics. This course will also include a section on media literacy, recognizing propaganda, and technology and media innovations and how they are altering how we take in news information about politics.

Instructor: Audrey Haynes, School of Public and International Affairs, Political Science
Audrey Haynes is an Associate Professor of Political Science and a Josiah Meigs Distinguished Teaching Professor at the School of Public and International Affairs. She directs the Applied Politics Program, part of a certificate shared with the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication. Her teaching interests include media, applied politics, propaganda, political parties, elections, and Georgia politics.

Wednesdays, 11:30-12:20 Baldwin Hall G41

As a society, we are intrigued with serial killers. Numerous books, documentaries, and academic publications have been devoted to analyzing the “why.” Using the book, “A Killer Across the Table: Unlocking the Secrets of Serial Killers and Predators with FBI’s Original Mindhunter,” along with documentaries and other scholarly sources, students will learn about prolific serial killers’ childhood, adolescence, and adult lives. Students will also learn numerous sociological and criminological theories, which will aid in their analysis of “why’d they do it.” In addition to this academic focus, this course will also emphasize academic support services available on campus, the mission of UGA as an institute of higher learning, all while fostering interactions between students and their professor.

Instructor: Bobby Jo Otto, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, Criminal Justice Studies and Sociology
Bobby Jo Otto has been a lecturer in UGA’s Criminal Justice Studies and Sociology Program since 2022. Before coming to UGA, he was an Associate Professor of Sociology at LaGrange College. His past research has examined how racial segregation impacts crime, which ignited a passion for criminal theory. In the Criminology course he teaches at UGA, students learn about several different theories that help explain criminal behavior and criminality.

Tuesdays, 11:10-12:25 Ramsey Student Center Pa215

Explore the rich history of University of Georgia athletics in this engaging seminar. From the iconic Sanford Stadium to Foley Field to Stegeman Coliseum you will examine the evolution of UGA sports, the significance of athletic achievements, and the impact of sports on the university. Through in-depth analysis of key moments, legendary athletes, and pivotal championships, this course highlights the role of athletics in shaping the identity of the University of Georgia. You will also explore the changing landscape of college athletics at UGA, in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Whether a lifelong fan or newcomer, gain a deeper appreciation for UGA athletics while learning about the broader influence of sports in higher education and society.

Instructor: Dave Schmidt, Mary Frances Early College of Education, Kinesiology
Dave Schmidt is an instructor in the Department of Kinesiology (Sport Management) at the University of Georgia. He worked in college athletic media relations for 10 years with stops at the University of North Carolina, Florida State University and his alma mater, Grand Valley State University before earning a master’s degree from the University of Georgia in sport management and policy. His research interests include sport gambling and sport analytics.

Mondays & Wednesdays, 12:40-1:30 Sanford Hall 109

Have you ever read headlines warning that diet soda causes cancer and screen time is making you depressed? Or maybe you’ve seen opinion polling and wondered how accurate it really is. Even seemingly simple questions like whether crime rates are rising or falling can spark controversy. In this seminar, you’ll use a statistical lens to look past hot takes and catchy headlines and better appreciate the nuance behind the news. As you dissect statistical information in the media, you’ll critically evaluate data-based claims, distinguishing between correlation and causation, and tracing conclusions back to the data they came from. You’ll decode statistical terminology from mean and median to p-values and margin of error. You’ll spot misleading graphs, cherry-picked data, and even the tell-tale signs of p-hacking. This seminar blends foundational statistical concepts with media literacy to develop tools for navigating the data-rich world we all live in.

Instructor: Catherine Case, Franklin College or Arts & Sciences, Statistics
Catherine Case studied math as an undergrad, and statistics wasn’t love at first sight for her — it seemed like math, only much messier! But she had a change of heart when she realized how often stats shows up outside the classroom and how it can be a tool for making sense of a messy world. Her favorite thing is when students tell me something we learned in class has snuck into their real life decision-making.

Wednesdays, 4:10-5:00 Broad Street Studio 110

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of entrepreneurship and innovation across the entire campus. For the past 11 years, the University of Georgia has consistently ranked among the top 5 U.S. universities in terms of the number of commercial products brought to market based on its research, maintaining a top position for nearly a decade, and securing the No. 1 or No. 2 spot for the past nine years. However, this course isn’t just about creating new products, it is about understanding how UGA’s 18 schools and colleges work both individually and collaboratively to address modern day challenges. No matter what career path you pursue, innovation will be essential, and you will discover that entrepreneurs can come from even the most unexpected places. Beginning with the Entrepreneurship Program at the Terry College of Business, we will explore how various colleges across campus foster innovation and nurture the development of entrepreneurs.

Instructor: Donald Chambers, Terry College of Business, Entrepreneurship Program
Don Chambers is a scholar-practitioner with 35 years’ experience driving innovation, holding a Doctorate focused on the practice of entrepreneurship. He has worked with startups and firms with up to 350 employees and $75 million in revenue, playing a key role in helping companies scale. His unique strength lies in bridging small firm innovation with large firm infrastructure. He has bought and sold businesses, started new companies and raised over $100 million in capital.

Thursdays, 9:35-10:50 Cedar Street Building C 678

This course offers a unique blend of sweetness and science. Together, we will explore a spectrum of topics ranging from chocolate production to persistent disease threats, such as Cholera. Join us to unravel the mysteries of microbes and their profound effects on our daily lives. Activities will include exploring research opportunities, building connections with healthcare fields, exploring study abroad programs, and investigating a variety of career paths in the life science disciplines.

Instructors: Julie Grainy, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, Microbiology | Co-instructor: Jennifer Walker, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, Microbiology
Julie Grainy teaches microbiology coursework from introductory microbiology up through a lab intensive course investigating antibiotic resistant bacteria in our local watershed. She loves building a relationship with her students across multiple semesters, through consecutive courses, involvement as a peer assistant, or other avenues of sustained mentorship. She would love to get to know you through this transfer launch seminar and continue the connection through the rest of your UGA journey!

Tuesdays, 3:55-5:10 Cedar Street Building C 574

This seminar will introduce students in chemistry and related disciplines to academic and research resources available at UGA specific to their fields, including introduction to the Chemistry Learning Assistants program, visits to instrumentation facilities and institutes (eg. CCRC), and advising on how to identify and engage in research opportunities at UGA and elsewhere. I also anticipate hosting two or three guest speakers in chemistry-adjacent career fields (chemical/medical/pharmaceutical industry, patent law, policy, etc.) to develop students’ long-term vision and goals.

Instructor: Nicholas Llewellyn Franklin College of Arts and Sciences Chemistry
Nicholas Llewellyn has taught general and organic chemistry courses at UGA for four years (15 years overall). His professional interests include student development, community building, educational access, and study abroad. He is co-advisor to the UGA chapter of the Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society, Academic Innovation Fellow for Global Education in Franklin College, creator of a study abroad course in the history and philosophy of chemistry, and recipient of multiple grants to develop free open-access educational resources in chemistry.

Wednesdays, 10:20-11:10 Cedar Street Building C 674

The average life span is 79 years, but the average health span (years lived in good health, free from chronic conditions) is only 63 years. As life spans increase, how can we also extend our health spans? This question has gained a lot of traction in the human physiology field in recent years. In this seminar, we will delve into the crucial roles of movement and diet in enhancing human physiology and health span. You will investigate the science behind how movement and diet affect nearly every organ system in the body, from the musculoskeletal to the immune system. By the end of this seminar, you will have gained concrete, evidence-based strategies you can incorporate into your life and provide to your family members, friends, and patients, ensuring not just a longer life but a healthier one.

Instructor: Courtney McDaniel, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Cellular Biology
With a diverse background in the biological sciences, spanning from human anatomy and physiology to ecology, Courtney McDaniel is driven by a curiosity to understand the mechanisms that govern biological systems (from the human body to freshwater ecosystems). As a dedicated lecturer in Anatomy and Physiology, her goal is for each student to leave her class with a profound appreciation for the amazing mechanisms that sustain us every day.

Tuesdays, 3:55-5:10, Journalism 514

This course will introduce you to fundamental accounting concepts, laying a strong foundation for success in upper-level accounting courses. By the end of the course, you will feel confident in using T accounts, preparing adjusting and closing entries, and preparing financial statements, with a particular emphasis on the statement of cash flows. The course will also cover special topics such as bonds payable, stockholders’ equity, and other topics tailored to the needs of the enrolled students. Additionally, you will learn effective study and test preparation strategies, and gain information about access to academic support resources, including tutoring, academic advising, and career guidance. You will also learn effective study and test preparation strategies, and gain information about access to academic support resources, including tutoring, academic advising, and career guidance. Recognizing that academic success is closely tied to student well-being, this course will also highlight resources available at UGA to support your overall well-being. You will have opportunities to engage with your fellow accounting students, helping to foster a sense of community within the program.

Instructor: Swati Bhandarkar, Terry College of Business, J.M. Tull School of Accounting
Swati Bhandarkar has been teaching both ‘Introduction to Financial Accounting’ and ‘Intermediate Accounting’ at the J.M. Tull School of Accounting, Terry College of Business, since Fall 2007. This experience has given her insight into the challenges transfer students face when transitioning to upper-level accounting courses. As a result, she is passionate about ensuring they develop the foundational accounting skills necessary for success in the Accounting major.

Wednesdays,  12:40-1:50 Zell B Miller Learning Center 147

This course uses the theme of symmetry to explore how mathematics weaves through the sciences, from physics and chemistry to biology. By looking at how symmetry shapes our understanding of the natural world, students will gain insight into the deep connections between math and other scientific disciplines. At the same time, the course emphasizes practical tools for academic success. Students will learn how to take meaningful notes, study math effectively, and make the most of the resources available at UGA, including tutoring, study spaces, and support services. Whether you’re planning to major in a STEM field or simply want to build confidence in math, this course offers both a fresh perspective and a solid foundation for future learning.

Instructor: Jimmy Dillies Franklin College or Arts & Sciences Mathematics
Jimmy Dillies is a mathematician whose research focuses on algebraic geometry and its interactions with mathematical physics. He studies the symmetries of certain spaces that arise in string theory, particularly Calabi–Yau varieties and related moduli spaces. His work bridges pure mathematics and theoretical physics, with an emphasis on geometric structures that underpin high-energy models.

Mondays, 10:20-12:20 Psychology 426

Clinical psychology is a diverse and growing sub-discipline of psychology that involves the application of science to understand, prevent, and treat disability and discomfort. However, pseudoscientific methods and practices are common in clinical psychology. This course will teach you to evaluate the merits of popular yet controversial practices and diagnoses, such as the Rorschach Inkblot Test, multiple personality disorder, and hypnosis. How accurate is eyewitness testimony? How helpful are self-help treatments? Can psychologists predict violent behavior? Can memories be recovered? We will read and discuss expert reviews of the scientific evidence answering this type of question. You will gain essential skills for thinking critically, evaluating the validity of scientific claims, and differentiating between those that can stand up to the rigors of science and those that cannot.

Instructor: Emily Mouilso, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, Psychology
Emily Mouilso is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology and the Director of the UGA Psychology Clinic. She is a licensed Psychologist in Georgia and Board Certified in Behavioral and Cognitive Psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology. Her research focuses on trauma, related conditions, and personality. Dr. Mouilso has professional expertise in clinical supervision, administration, and ethics.

Wednesdays, 3:00-3:50 Cedar Street Building C 271

Congratulations! You have joined the UGA community, and now it’s time to focus on your B.S. Biology degree. This seminar is designed to help you successfully navigate the Biology degree program by introducing you to student learning expectations, how to leverage undergraduate experiences to help you reach your career goals, and resources for student well-being. We will tackle topics such as scientific communication, understanding scientific data, learning strategies for active learning – especially in large class environments, finding undergraduate research opportunities, and career paths in the life sciences. We will also review the core biological content and concepts needed to jump into your upper-level courses – from information flow and evolution to organismal diversity and ecology (special focus on gene expression and inheritance). Students will leave this seminar with a solid foundation of knowledge and tools that can be used in Biology major, across UGA, and into your chosen careers.

Instructor: Kristen Miller, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, Biology
As Director of Biological Sciences, Kristen Miller oversees the B.S Biology degree program. Her love for teaching and science were largely cultivated when she studied baboons and spider monkeys in a B.A. Animal Behavior program! These experiences fostered further education training in biopsychology, ecology and science education, and she is proud to use an interdisciplinary approach to her research in undergraduate teaching and learning and to cultivating student success in academics and career choices.

Wednesdays, 10:20 -11:10 Ramsey Student Center Room 225

Did you know that bacteria are everywhere! In fact, more than half of your body is not actually human! And if you were capable of removing all objects from the Earth and staining the remaining microbes, you would still see an outline of all of those objects, including our own bodies! In this class, you will learn about how these widespread bacteria are both beneficial and detrimental to us. We will discuss the exciting basic and applied microbial research being done across campus and attend seminars by distinguished visiting speakers. You will also have the opportunity to meet one of these visitors to learn more about their science and career paths in a casual setting. This class will include tours of the joint Complex Carbohydrate Research Center (CCRC) and Center for Molecular Medicine (CMM), and to the fully accredited Athens Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

Instructor: Christine Szymanski, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, Microbiology

Christine Szymanski is currently the Associate Department Head of Microbiology and University Distinguished Research Professor. Her laboratory is in the CCRC where she and her group study bacteria of medical importance and they are actively involved in developing novel treatment methods. Dr. Szymanski has worked in both government agencies and at universities, and has engaged with several biopharmaceutical industries, providing her with a unique insight into careers in the biological sciences.

Wednesdays, 1:50 to 2:40 Miller Learning Center Room 147

Did someone really just bring an animal back from extinction using genetic engineering? What’s the deal with the newest fad diet? We encounter headlines like this all the time, but rarely do we take the time to look at the research behind them to uncover the truth beneath the claims. In this seminar, each week we will listen to a podcast and then take a look at the research behind the stories. Not only will this let us learn more about the world around us, but it will also give us a chance to think about the scientific process, examine peer-reviewed papers and think about how scientific findings and data communicated to the public. Maybe we’ll even try making our own podcast!

Instructor: Carrie Pucko, Franklin College of Arts & Sciences, Plant Biology

Carrie Pucko has been communicating science as a lecturer at UGA for 8 years, but before she arrived here, she taught science to all different kinds of audiences. Dr. Pucko developed curriculum for an outdoor education center in Washington State, a Children’s Science Museum in Seattle and has done community science programs for students of all ages. She is also an avid fan of many science podcasts and looks forward to sharing her favorites with the class.

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:35 to 10:50 Journalism Bldg Room 513

This seminar will introduce you to fundamental marketing concepts and the dynamic ecosystem of industry partners. You’ll gain an understanding of internship and career opportunities, ensuring you have a strong foundation for your journey as a marketing major. Exploring MARK Courses and Career Paths: You’ll dive into various MARK courses and areas of emphasis, discovering how each relates to different career paths within marketing and communications. Topics covered include: Brand Management, Digital Marketing Strategy, Personal Selling, Marketing Analytics, New Business/Product Development. The seminar will include guest speakers and mentorship.Throughout the semester, you’ll hear from guest speakers ranging from senior industry executives to Terry young alumni. They will provide valuable academic and industry connections, share case studies, offer career counseling, and provide 1:1 mentorship to support your academic and professional success. The seminar will also include academic and career Support. As a transfer student, this course has been designed to help you integrate into the Terry College of Business Marketing program and provide you with critical skills and resources needed for academic success at UGA. You’ll benefit from tutoring, academic advising, career guidance, and test preparation strategies. Recognizing that academic success is closely tied to student well-being, the course will also highlight resources available at UGA to support your overall well-being.

Instructor: Scott Cuppari, Terry College of Business, Marketing

Scott Cuppari brings over 30 years of industry experience into the classroom at The University of Georgia, from his time working at US and International advertising agencies as well as 10+ years at The Coca-Cola Company. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of Wonder Natural Foods prior to joining UGA as a full-time faculty member in Fall 2023. Mr. Cuppari frequently provides a real-world perspective in each of his courses while also mentoring students on resumes/interview skills from his lens of a former hiring-manager at The Coca-Cola Company.

Wednesdays, 1:50 to 2:40 LeConte Hall Room 341

This one-credit seminar course explores essential classification techniques in machine learning, covering both supervised and unsupervised approaches. Students will examine how algorithms are applied to real-world problems such as spam detection, disease prediction, and image recognition. Weekly discussions will focus on widely used supervised methods like logistic regression, k-nearest neighbors, decision trees, random forests, and support vector machines, along with unsupervised techniques such as clustering and principal component analysis (PCA). Emphasis is placed on conceptual understanding, model performance evaluation, and common challenges like overfitting and dimensionality reduction. This seminar offers an engaging and supportive environment to begin exploring data science and artificial intelligence. No prior programming experience is required. As an entry point into the world of machine learning at UGA, this course provides a meaningful and intellectually stimulating foundation for future academic and professional exploration.

Instructor: Sarangan Balasubramaniam, Franklin College of Arts & Sciences, Statistics

Sarangan Balasubramaniam is a Lecturer in the Department of Statistics specializing in statistics and data science. Since 2022, she has taught over 20 sections across five course preparations, with an average student rating of 4.7 out of 5. She was nominated for a teaching excellence award and served as a teaching fellow. She actively designs curriculum innovations and AI-supported tools to enhance learning experiences, making complex ideas accessible and supporting student success.

Fridays, 11:30 to 12:20 Boyd Research & Education Center Room 208

Attending UGA is an opportunity to develop a disposition of curiosity about the world and creativity toward problem-solving. In this class, students will learn how to solve the classic Rubik’s cube puzzle. We will use the puzzle as a context to discuss general problem-solving processes, curiosity, expression, and creativity. Along the way, we will explore the mathematical structures underlying the Rubik’s cube and learn about the field of recreational mathematics. Students will collaborate with peers to create Rubik’s cube mosaic art. Students will also identify avenues for creative and playful problem-solving within their major disciplines. Finally, students will learn about various campus resources and leverage some of these resources to complete a small creative project within their discipline.

Instructor: David Plaxco, Franklin College of Arts & Sciences, Mathematics

David Plaxco is a mathematics educator and recreational mathematician who creates art with n×n×n Rubik’s cubes. Plaxco leverages the mathematical structures underlying Rubik’s cubes to develop algorithms that precisely manipulate the cube’s pixels. This allows him to form aesthetic patterns on the puzzles, which can be considered alternative solution states (rather than solid colors on each side). He has presented several academic talks and art pieces and has a sponsored Instagram account.