Teacher/Staff Interview: Mr. Knickerbocker

1) Tell us about yourself: Who you are, what are your hobbies, maybe a fav band, etc...?

I've been in Korea for over 20 years. Before I came here I was teaching ESL at a university. I have a wife and daughter who you've probably seen around here. For hobbies, I like to play boardgames and fantasy football. I also like to listen to rock music.

2) Could you tell us about your history as a teacher and what led you to join VIS?

When I was growing up I did a lot of peer tutoring and was interested in teaching. I actually thought that I would go into something like youth ministry. But when I was in seminary I did a summer program and I had to teach university students for the program, and I actually really liked it so I decided that would be what I did. I thought I would just do it for a couple of years, but I fell in love with it and have been doing it ever since. I mentioned before that I was teaching at the university, but it was mostly ESL, so I wanted to teach literature for a change. That was why I moved here and found Valor, and it looked like a great community so that's why I'm here.

3) If you could have a superpower, what would it be and what would you do with it?

I think maybe teleportation would be the most useful. You wouldn't waste anytime in traffic or if you ever forget your papers back at home you could zip back and get it. Or you could visit friends who are far away or something. Maybe that's kinda selfish but I would pick that.

4) As a relatively new member of the VIS community, could you share with us what your experience here is like? What do you find enjoyable or challenging?

The enjoyable part is definitely getting to see the students and to know them better everyday. And also my coworkers are all very fun and kind so that's good. Challenging? I think for everybody there's a lot of work and stress to do their best for the students and help them. I think that's the most challenging part.

5) Are you a beach guy or a mountain guy? Why?

I guess I'd be a beach guy. I don't like swimming so much but I do like playing in the waves. I haven't ever gone surfing but I think it would be cool to try, but whatever I like the waves so I guess I am a beach guy. Mountains are cool and the wilderness is beautiful, but climbing the mountain is kind of a pain though. If I could get the cable car up to the mountain, then maybe I would be a mountain guy.

6) For any struggling students, what would be your advice for them to succeed in your class?

Definitely come and talk to the teacher. We all want to help the students, but they might be kinda intimidated to talk to us. But that is probably the easiest way to get help for what they need and for us to get on the same page. That's definitely my advice.

7) What is one good thing that has happened to you this week?

I went to Starfield over the weekend and had a good hamburger and french fries, so that was good.