Cheryl Johnson, M.A. - Instructor, English

In which online degree program(s) do you teach?

Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences.

Which classes do you teach online?

ENGL 1302 Comp 2, ENGL 4317 Modern Drama

Why did you start teaching?

I was approached by a friend who was head of a junior college. He asked me to teach a summer class for him because he was shorthanded. I was 30 years old at the time and was actually working in an elementary school, so this was a big jump for me. After teaching that one class, I fell in love with the college atmosphere and literally said to myself, "So this is what I'm supposed to be when I grow up!" That one class opened the door for me, and I have been teaching ever since.

What's the best advice that you have ever received?

My dad used to always tell me, "100 years from now, we'll never know the difference." I would hate it when he said that, but what he was trying to tell me was to focus on the important things and don't get weighed down with insignificant things. I tell myself that same advice often, and it really helps me focus on what is important.

What's the best advice that you could give your students?

Pursue your dreams. Don't let anyone stop you. And respect everyone around you. It is attitude and respect that will really get you where you want to be.

What is the one book you think everyone should read?

The Bible.

Tell us something your students may not know about you.

I am a college football fanatic. Every Saturday in the fall, my family, eight of us (my son and his wife, my daughter and her husband, and my youngest daughter and her boyfriend), gather around the TV for football. I make a huge spread of food that we just eat whenever we want. I love the sport and the family time. We have done this ever since my kids were in elementary school, and I can't imagine a time when we will not be doing this. These are some of our favorite memories.