September 1, 2020

DAUS Faculty Spotlight: Alex Bordino

This summer, we introduced a new interview series to showcase members of our community who help make our division what it is. Here’s one more, as Fall classes start this week!

We invite you to get to know one of our adjunct faculty, Alex Bordino, who teaches Media Studies courses in the Division of Applied Undergraduate Studies.

When and how did you decide to research and teach about your field?

I was asked by a former advisor of mine to teach some video editing courses at night. I was freelancing at the time and needed the extra money, so I somewhat reluctantly agreed, but quickly fell in love with teaching. After developing an advanced course, I decided to return to graduate school to study film history. Eight years later I’m preparing to defend my dissertation.

Did you have a mentor? Tell us about them.

Throughout my career I have had great colleagues who I have learned from in different ways. The learning process is a dialogue, and interacting with many individuals from a variety of backgrounds is essential.

If you were not a professor, what avocation would you have?

Higher education administrator. I don’t really see myself as anything other than an educator in some capacity.

What will be your next book to read?

I am currently conducting research on representations of indigenous peoples in photography and film during the early twentieth century. My reading list is extensive.

Was there a class or subject you dreaded or really struggled with in college?

I had to take a fitness course as a community college student. I think that was the only time I ever received a “C” in a class. Ironically, I am somewhat of a fitness junkie, but as more of a science-centered course, it seemed completely irrelevant to the subject areas I was interested in pursuing.

What is or was the most difficult course/subject to teach?

Research Methods. It is challenging to articulate how scholarly research translates to practical real-life skills. In most of the courses I teach, it is easier to think outside of the traditional box.

Who/what is your inspiration?

My daughter, Jamie. Also my students, who encourage me to look at things from perspectives I had not considered. Learning is a collaboration!


Alex Bordino is Adjunct Instructor of Media Studies at DAUS, teaching Understanding Media and The Language of Contemporary Images.


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