Williams recognized for teaching, mentorship of grad students

Michelle Williams had always thought that teaching was a skill “some people had” – and some people didn’t.

“I didn’t think that I was one of those people who had it,” says Williams, an associate professor of psychology and director of clinical training.

“I had great admiration for teaching and teachers,” she says.

“I credit my entire academic success to a handful of amazing ones, from elementary school through college. I know what good teaching is. I just never thought I’d be good at it.”

That’s obviously not the case.

Williams recently received an award from the Alumni Association for faculty excellence in teaching at the graduate level.

“When I came to UConn in 1996, I was encouraged by mentors who thought I was well suited for teaching, so I gave it a shot,” Williams says.

“It was my first job.” She also has a joint appointment with the Institute for African American Studies.

Williams earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Emory University, and a Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Georgia. For many years, she had considered a career in medicine.

After taking her first psychology course in college, however, she found her true calling.

Williams enjoys teaching both undergraduate and graduate students, but says a faculty member’s role with grad students is more that of a mentor.

“Graduate students come in very eager with a strong set of skills,” she says.

“You can really mentor them and watch them evolve as they move from student to junior colleague. It’s so rewarding to see them in your role just five or six years later.”

Williams says that teaching graduate students extends beyond the classroom.

“You’re mentoring them in their research, work-life balance, and career decisions,” she says. “You’re really involved in their lives.”

The graduate students that work with Williams seek careers in academia or in clinical settings. When they graduate from the University, they still call her for advice.

“The students who are in academic positions still see me as a mentor,” she says. “I’m in regular contact with them.”

She recalls the words of George Allen, a professor emeritus of psychology who was one of her mentors: “A good mentor is able to envision the future for the person being mentored, understands what is necessary to be successful, and ultimately provides the resources, skills, and opportunities to make the future a reality. Even when the student doesn’t believe it is possible, the mentor is absolutely convinced of it.”