The number one goal of teachers should be to help students learn how to learn.

Another way to be prepared is to think negatively. Yes, I'm a great optimist. but, when trying to make a decision, I often think of the worst case scenario. I call it 'the eaten by wolves factor.' If I do something, what's the most terrible thing that could happen? Would I be eaten by wolves? One thing that makes it possible to be an optimist, is if you have a contingency plan for when all hell breaks loose. There are a lot of things I don't worry about, because I have a plan in place if they do.

Anything is possible, and that’s something we should not lose sight of. The inspiration and the permission to dream is huge.

Often think of the worst-case scenario, the "Eaten By Wolves" factor.

If you want something bad enough, never give up (and take a boost when offered).

Education best serves students by helping them be more self-reflective.

Throughout my academic career, I'd given some pretty good talks. But being considered the best speaker in the computer science department is like being known as the tallest of the Seven Dwarfs.