Inspiring curiosity: How Jordyn is shaping the next generation of scientists

For Jordyn, a rich academic experience comes down to approachability, flexibility, and passion. With a natural curiosity for all things science, teaching was a no-brainer in Jordyn’s career journey.  

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Jordyn’s love for biology began in his childhood, living on a farm in Wollongong.  

‘I wanted to know all about the natural world’, says Jordyn. ‘That became the thread throughout my life’.   

Now on his way to completing a PhD on endangered Australian marsupial conservation, Jordyn reflects on how this passion carried him into a successful academic career.   

From student to teacher

Jordyn tutored part-time at UOW’s Wollongong campus in between his own Bachelor of Science studies. When he heard of an opening for a lecturer in UOW College’s science department, he saw an opportunity to take the next step in his teaching career.   

‘UOW College gave me autonomy in planning and delivery, so I could design classes how I wanted to’.  

Jordyn finds teaching Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences to be as much about content as connection. Seeing students grow in confidence throughout the semester has been an inspiring aspect of his teaching experience.  

‘It is genuinely night and day’, he says, as students build skills to take control of their own learning and develop a genuine passion for their degree.   

Creating a flexible and welcoming learning environment is a large part of what Jordyn attributes to student success.   

Carmela Pain, a past student at UOW College, reflects fondly on how these classes shaped her learning experience.  

‘Classes [were] fun and informative’, says Carmela. Jordyn’s genuine passion for science and commitment to student success gave her the confidence to continue in her studies and achieve her academic goals, even after graduation.

Being able to support students long after they’ve left the classroom is a huge source of pride for Jordyn.  

‘I've had the privilege of writing letters of recommendation for several of my UOW College students, some of which have gone on to win research scholarships and overseas travel grants’, says Jordyn. 

‘Knowing that I played a role in helping them get to where they are is definitely one of the highlights of my teaching career so far’. 

More than content 

In an environment as diverse as UOW College, helping each student understand what sparks their curiosity is key in this journey.   

‘That extra element of support is crucial’, he says. ‘Without support, passion only goes so far’.   

Jordyn admires the College’s ability to balance a flexible learning environment with a strong curriculum and commitment to student success.   

‘It’s an environment where students feel both welcome and at ease’, says Jordyn. Both students and teachers have the freedom to collaborate and give support in a close-knit community.   

This flexibility was essential to Jordyn’s ability to continue his PhD research while teaching. Though challenging, Jordyn is grateful for the learning opportunity. 

‘Navigating these competing priorities has forced me to hone my skills in time management, organisation and prioritisation,’ says Jordyn. 

‘Ultimately, I believe staying active in both the research and teaching spaces makes me a better researcher and a more engaging educator.’ 

Inspiring curiosity about the natural world comes with the added benefit of a supportive space for students to challenge themselves and show up for their personal, academic and career goals. 

Finding your passion

Jordyn loves to inspire passion for science, but it’s equally rewarding to see students grow in confidence.   

‘Learning is about more than just content; It’s about a shift in perspective’.  

Drawing from his experience as a UOW student has allowed him to connect with students at UOW College and support them in ways which continue to inspire his teaching journey.  

Often the hardest part of any academic journey is the beginning: showing up, finding your passion and keeping up the momentum.   

‘You’ve done the hard part’, says Jordyn,: ‘You’ve taken the first step. That’s what’s most important. You never know what will click or when, so just give it a go.’   

UOW College is an opportunity to build both critical academic skills and self-confidence. Facilitating this experience is the most rewarding part of Jordyn’s career.  

‘If I can inspire students to get curious about their world and potential, then I feel I’ve done my job right.’   

For Jordyn, curiosity is the first step into discovering your potential.