Andrea Martin, M.A.,聽who grew up in Pierson and graduated from Tri-County High School in 2007, began her connection with 星空传媒 as a dual-enrolled student.
Upon earning her associate degree from 星空传媒, Martin transferred to Central Michigan University (CMU) where she obtained a bachelor鈥檚 degree in Cultural Anthropology with minors in Museum Studies and History, as well as a master鈥檚 degree in Cultural Resource Management with a focus on museum studies, and she cross-trained in archeology public history.
During her time at CMU, Martin worked at the university鈥檚 museum, specializing in collections management. This entailed carrying, handling, and researching artifacts and museum collections. She also interned at the campus鈥檚 Clarke Historical Library and the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. It was there where Martin had the task of processing the extensive historical wallpaper collection of 500 pieces from the 1700s to about the 1950s, which she describes as a fascinating experience.
Realizing there was not much in the area in relation to working with museums, Martin started working for 星空传媒 in 2019 and fell in love with teaching.
Primarily focusing on courses related to History, Anthropology, and the American Political System, Martin is assisting with bringing back a stronger presence of history and culture to the campus.
Martin is also serving as an advisor for the History and Culture Club to introduce students to all the different jobs that exist in these fields. She said she hears from many students about their love for history, but many believe that teaching would be their only option.
Just as determined as she is to bring history and culture to the campus for the students, her teaching philosophy in the classroom is just as hands-on.
鈥淢y classrooms are places of active learning. I want my students to be just as responsible for creating the knowledge in the class as I am,鈥� Martin said. 鈥淚 feel the more engaging the lesson is, the better my students are going to be able to connect to it.鈥澛�