Bryanna Bynum, an associate professor of English and a graduate student in the University of La Verne English Department of Organizational Leadership, lives a double life as a teacher and student. From students’ perspectives, she serves as a relatable and fun-loving individual seeking the well-being of her students.
Bryanna’s ability to be relatable to students is natural, and if it isn’t of her chic style consisting of A-line dresses and round glasses, then it’s her quirky and sharp-witted personality accompanied by her hysterical stories.
“I really enjoy her lively attitude and her assignments. I grew a liking to english and a liking for her teacher to student approach. I can see her as a friend and also respect her as a teacher, which is something I don’t experience often,” said Catherine Rodriguez, a freshman education major.
Did you have a mentor?
Her advisor and mentor, David Werner, past chair of the English Department at the University of La Verne and author of two books, worked with Bryanna in the year of 2010 gradually shaping her to who she was today as a driven professor and student in the Department of English and Graduate Program of Educational Leadership.
“If it wasn’t for him pushing me I probably would have not gone on to get my masters in writing and would not have the job I love doing today,” said Bryanna.
Describe your double life as a teacher and student.
Bryanna’s morning routine begins when her alarm clock rings, like any student, followed by being immediately off to the races for the myraid tasks she has ahead of her during the day. With an apple on her lap and coffee in the glove compartment of her 2012 sedan, she begins her day like any aspiring student and working professor.
When did your love for books develop?
Looking back, “it all started in second grade with the book series ‘The Boxcar Children,’ I read that and I wanted to read more. I loved reading ever since,” said Bryanna. She realized her love for reading in middle school and knew she wanted to pursue a doctorate degree in high school.
What was your family like?
Family, being a big part of her development as a child, tok her to libraries and museums which greatly lengthened her knowledge and relationship with reading. Being from a family of psychologists and psychoanalysts, Bryanna often wanted to surpass her excellences which is represented by her go-getter personality.
Who is an inspiration to you?
Bryanna shares heart-warming stories of her mother constantly encouraging her to chase her dreams. Despite being the one of the few african-american students in the department of english, Bryanna still pursues her passion for reading and writing.
“I’m not allowed to say I can’t. My mother taught me to think this way as I may need more time to develop for more things and understand but never to tell myself I can’t understand and sign myself to say that,” said Bryanna.
In hopes of completing her doctorate degree in the year of 2018, Bryanna inspires her students of today to better their writing skills with as much determination and will-power as she did. Hopefully, with a mentor and constant supporter throughout our college careers.