Anna Williams-Cote

where she’s studied...
B.A., Stonehill College
J.D., New England School of Law

what she’s taught...
Criminal Evidences & Investigation
Juvenile Delinquency
Criminal Law


WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT QUINCY COLLEGE?
Students, Students, and Students - which is what makes Quincy College such a special place to work. I have had the great opportunity of being a part of Quincy College for more than 10 years. Our students are creative, enthusiastic and not afraid to challenge themselves or their instructors. I have met and come to know some of the brightest, interesting and most dedicated people in my students.

The evening students and the day students come from a variety of backgrounds and occupations and bring a wealth of practical information and experience with them into classroom discussions. The diversity adds so much to the learning experience. I marvel at how open students are with one another and supportive when one of them has a problem.

I think students are so enthusiastic and open because they have a history with faculty members who care. Quincy College faculty members are dedicated and supportive of their students. Adjuncts and full time faculty bring a real working knowledge of their subjects to the class. They work very hard to create an atmosphere which is conducive to learning, supportive and open. It shows in the students.

The administration is working very hard. They are open to change and have established a very welcoming environment. It’s obvious that the administration is developing an approach to education based on increased focus on students. I love what I do and Quincy College has allowed me to do what I love.

“Real success is finding your lifework in the work that you love”
David McCullough

WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY OF TEACHING?
I firmly believe that in order for a person to get the most out of their education it has to be grounded in reality. How does this relate to what I’m doing now? Theory can be memorized and must be understood but applying that theory to real life is a true learning experience.

When applying any new theory or idea it can be scary. So I try to develop a very comfortable atmosphere in my classes. I want students to understand that it’s OK to not get it right every time. Perfection doesn’t allow for learning new things, Mistakes allow for all kinds of new information and learning.

I’ve learned so much from my students. My motto is that “I learn something new every day” and I’m always learning something from my students. I want them to know that learning is not just what you read in a textbook. We learn all the time. Living is the ultimate learning experience. It’s important for them to look at the real world. I’ll use current events, music, movies whatever works to make the lesson real.

My students seem to relate better to a comfortable, humorous and relaxed atmosphere. They need to feel safe. I hope they feel safe from ridicule, from unrealistic expectations and fear of having an opinion. Students have opinions, very strong opinions but sometimes hesitate to express them in class. I try to give them every encouragement and opportunity to express those opinions.

Students amaze me when they take a theory or discussion point and bring it into their own life experience by examples. Then you know they got it.

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