Coffee Catch Up with DOREEN DER

Instructor, School of Business and Energy

For 26 years, instructor Doreen Der has been a foundation of Lakeland’s business programs. She has taught 45 different courses, including Accounting I, Small Business Management, Business Computer Applications, Leadership and Supervision, Basic Accounting, Economic Development in Developing Countries, International Business and Quantitative Methods.

Doreen sat down for a quick coffee catch up in January 2023.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT TEACHING LAKELAND STUDENTS?

 I love seeing that moment when students understand concepts. It may take some time to get there but it is always rewarding. Knowing that students learnt something from me is very gratifying. We witness real growth in students’ thought processes.

I enjoy meeting with and learning from students. They have different perspectives that are shaped by their backgrounds, cultures and experiences. Some of their life stories are incredible.

Teaching is never the same; every day is different. I enjoy that uniqueness. We make a difference every day. To be a part of something that changes people’s lives is fulfilling and humbling.

I’m blessed in that we have laughs and smiles every day. This is a gift that is not readily given to everyone; I’m grateful to receive this gift. For example, only in the Prairies is this excuse acceptable: “Sorry, I’m late for the exam. I had cow troubles.”

HOW HAS THE FIELD YOU TEACH IN CHANGED SINCE YOU BEGAN TEACHING HERE?

 The biggest changes are in technology with smart boards, smaller and faster laptops and learning management systems. The classroom is different in that students use laptops and mobile phones as part of their learning experience. There is more diversity in the student mix as more international students are welcomed to the college. Simulation programs are included as part of the curriculum.

Work-integrated learning in the form of co-ops and practicums are part of the curriculum. There are increased partnerships opportunities with other institutions in offering degrees and transfer credits. There are also increased opportunities with partnership in the community, including guest speakers, advisory committees and potential employers.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU GET TO CONNECT WITH PAST STUDENTS AND HOW DOES IT MAKE YOU FEEL?

 I am blessed in that alumni visit often. I’m humbled that they think of me and take the time and effort to come see me. It is exciting to see how far they have gone. Our alumni have reached the highest rung in the corporate ladder. They have become successful entrepreneurs. They have changed communities. It is fulfilling and rewarding to know that I helped them in their pre-careers.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

 People inspire me. The world inspires me. I strive to do the best I can. Sometimes I can only do a little; sometimes, I can do a lot. I think it is important that I do, that we all do. If we all do something together, we can make many things happen. This is what inspires me every day.

IF YOU WEREN’T AN INSTRUCTOR AT LAKELAND, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM JOB?

 Teaching at the college level is a dream come true. I had to check my insecurities at the classroom door and walk through that door with fake confidence, despite being terrified and filled with self-doubt. No one told me that teaching meant standing in front of a group of people who would be writing down what you are saying and looking at your every move. My dream job would be drawing maps for the National Geographic magazine. Several courses in my second- degree were in cartography.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO STUDENTS?

 Be courageous and do it! There’s a whole world out there waiting to be explored. All it takes is the courage to do it.