Dr. Anita Karmen Kovacs, PhD, Science educator,
researcher, A-level Chemistry teacher, Ulink College Shanghai, China
As
a Hungarian citizen, I've always felt more like a citizen of the world. My
journey has taken me to numerous countries, where I've had the joy of finding
pieces of myself and forging lasting friendships in each place. My passion
extends beyond just travel; I am deeply interested in exploring various
cultures, traditions, and lifestyles across the globe.
What
makes my experience even more enriching is my profession. Working as an
international teacher, I have the unique opportunity to immerse myself in
different worlds through the eyes and experiences of my students. This role
perfectly aligns with my life's purpose: to travel, to gain a deeper
understanding of the world, to remain in awe of its wonders, and most
importantly, to share this wealth of knowledge.
Being
part of international schools as an expat teacher, I find the perfect blend of
teaching and traveling. This not only fulfils my desire to explore but also
allows me to contribute positively by educating young minds. Each new location
is not just a destination but a new chapter in my life, rich with learning and
connections. My journey is about more than just seeing the world; it's about
understanding it and helping others to do the same.
Educational qualifications
My
educational journey, rooted in the rich academic soil of Hungary, reflects a
deep-seated passion for science and an unwavering commitment to continuous
learning. It began in high school, where I majored in English, a language that
I have since mastered to near-native proficiency, a testament to my dedication
and aptitude for linguistic skills.
After
high school, I embarked on a rigorous academic path in chemistry, pursuing a
Bachelor's degree in Bioinorganic Chemistry at the prestigious University of
Szeged. It was during my second year that I dove headfirst into the practical
world of organic chemistry through an internship at the Department of Medical
Chemistry. This hands-on experience culminated in a thesis focused on
glycopeptide synthesis, a challenging yet fascinating topic.
Demonstrating
exceptional academic prowess, I completed my B.Sc. studies a semester early,
during which time I also served as an assistant researcher at the department.
My thirst for knowledge led me to a Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Science
and Drug Research, paralleled by a fellowship at a leading biotechnology
company. This period marked the beginning of my journey as an educator,
teaching chemistry at the university's international medical school.
My
master's thesis on the synthesis of modified peptides was just another
milestone in my relentless pursuit of scientific excellence. This pursuit
continued as I entered the doctoral school of theoretical medicine at the same
university, intertwining teaching, biotechnology research, and a research
position at the Hungarian Academy of Sciences.
Securing
my PhD, with a thesis on luciferin-based bioimaging molecules, was a journey
marked by a kaleidoscope of academic endeavours: teaching, researching,
studying, and participating in conferences. It was a path not just of academic
achievement but of personal growth, illustrating a life dedicated to science,
education, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.
Teaching and research expert in science
My
expertise is a mosaic of teaching and research, each aspect equally rich in
experience and passion. In the realm of research, my heart belongs to organic
synthesis, a field where I have amassed an impressive 15 years of experience.
The journey through organic synthesis is akin to navigating a complex
labyrinth—it's fraught with challenges and setbacks, yet these obstacles only
fuel my determination to discover the right synthesis route. Being an organic
chemistry researcher is not merely a job; it's an all-consuming passion. It
involves immersing oneself in the depths of scientific literature,
brainstorming innovative synthesis methods, and experiencing the unparalleled
joy of a successful experiment. Success in this field is the result of a
confluence of numerous factors, and while the path has been demanding, it has
been equally rewarding.
Parallel
to my research is my extensive 13+ years of teaching, spanning both university
and high school levels. Currently, my focus has shifted more towards teaching,
where I find immense fulfilment in a noble mission: guiding my students towards
gaining admission into the world’s top universities. This responsibility isn't
taken lightly; it involves delivering education of the highest caliber.
Leveraging my background as a university educator, I offer my students a unique
advantage. I understand the diverse requirements of various universities
intimately, equipping me to prepare my students effectively for their academic
futures.
Beyond
the curriculum, I endeavour to enrich their educational experience. By
introducing research activities, scientific paper analysis, and science
seminars as extracurricular activities, I aim to provide more than just
standard education. My goal is to offer something extra—something that ignites
a passion for science and research in my students. This additional layer of
education is not just about imparting knowledge; it's about instilling a sense
of curiosity and a drive to explore beyond the classroom. Through these
efforts, I hope to not only prepare my students academically but also inspire
them to pursue their own paths of inquiry and discovery.
Professional journey
My
professional journey is a story of passion ignited by inspiration and a
relentless pursuit of a dream that began in my high school years. The moment
that set everything in motion was my first biology class; the awe and wonder
kindled in that room were thanks to an exceptional teacher whose influence on
me was profound. On that very day, I was captivated by the allure of science,
and I made a resolute decision: I was going to become a scientist.
This
vision of me as a researcher tirelessly working in a laboratory became the
driving force behind my diligent efforts in high school. My hard work paid off
when I was admitted to university, where, in my first year, I encountered
another pivotal figure—a professor who taught pharmaceutical chemistry with
such charisma and expertise that I was utterly enchanted. It was in that
classroom that I found my calling in pharmaceutical and drug research. This
new-found goal shaped the trajectory of my entire academic journey.
I
was fortunate enough to align myself with a department, supervisors,
colleagues, and a research group that provided unwavering support. To them, I
owe immense gratitude for the opportunities to explore and grow as a researcher
throughout my studies. I relished every moment of this journey, deeply immersed
in the world of scientific inquiry.
Teaching
initially emerged as a side job, but gradually, it evolved into something more
significant. I began to realise that my true aspiration was to emulate the
impact my two remarkable teachers had on me. I aspired to be the catalyst for a
lifelong passion for science in my students, just as my teachers had been for me.
My
professional path, therefore, became a blend of research and teaching. Each
step reinforced my belief that my purpose was not only to contribute to the
scientific community through research but also to inspire and nurture the next
generation of scientists. My ultimate goal is to be as influential and
inspiring a figure to my students as those two professors were in my life,
igniting a flame of passion for science that burns just as brightly as it did
in me.
Connecting science to daily life by teaching
Professional
description of my teaching style: Bridging science with everyday life
In
my approach to teaching, I place a significant emphasis on demonstrating that
science is not just a subject confined to textbooks but a fascinating aspect of
our everyday lives and the broader universe. My teaching style is deeply rooted
in the philosophy of making science accessible and relatable to everyone.
Connecting the classroom to the real world: During each class, regardless of the
topic, I make it a point to illustrate how the subject matter interweaves with
our daily experiences. This connection is crucial, as it helps students
understand the practical relevance and implications of scientific concepts.
Whether it's discussing a potential pandemic or the science behind the latest
technological innovations, my goal is to ensure that every student grasps the
science that shapes our world.
Human-faced science lessons: My teaching is centred around the
concept of 'human-faced' science education. This approach is about demystifying
scientific concepts and making them comprehensible and interesting to all
students, regardless of their background in science. It's about breaking down
complex theories into understandable segments that resonate with their everyday
experiences.
Journal clubs for in-depth exploration: For students with a deeper interest
in science, I offer 'journal clubs' as an extracurricular activity. Here, we
collectively read and analyse current research papers. This not only exposes
them to the latest scientific discoveries but also encourages critical thinking
as we discuss the research's objectives and its contribution to human
understanding and welfare.
Inviting high-achiever researchers: Another key aspect of my teaching
style is inviting accomplished researchers to present their work at our school.
These sessions provide students with direct exposure to pioneering scientific
work and the minds behind it. It serves as an inspirational platform,
showcasing real-world scientific achievements and possibly igniting a passion
for scientific pursuit in my students.
In
essence, my teaching style is about making science approachable and relevant.
It’s about nurturing a deep understanding and appreciation of science in
everyday life while also providing avenues for students to delve deeper into
scientific research. My aim is to inspire, educate, and empower students to
appreciate the omnipresence of science and its pivotal role in our world.
Scientific research, publications, and journals
Throughout
my career in organic chemistry, my research and publications have predominantly
centred around the synthesis of organic compounds with significant medical
applications. My work has spanned a diverse array of compounds, including
glycopeptides, heterocycle-based drug candidates, antiamnestic and
antimicrobial peptides, peptid-heterocycle conjugates for bioimaging, and
various modified peptides, all tailored for medical purposes.
A
significant portion of my research time was dedicated to the synthesis and
analysis of peptides. This involved not only the complex process of creating
these compounds but also rigorously testing their stability under various
conditions, such as in different eye drop formulations. Such studies are
crucial in medical research, as they determine the feasibility and safety of
these compounds in practical applications.
Collaboration
has been a cornerstone of my work. I have consistently worked in close tandem
with biologists and medical doctors, fostering a multidisciplinary approach
that is essential in modern scientific research. This collaboration has enabled
a more comprehensive understanding of the compounds and their potential medical
applications.
Beyond
the laboratory, a considerable part of my role involved the meticulous process
of data collection, organisation, and analysis. Representing these findings in
a scientific paper is as much an art as it is a science. It requires not only a
deep understanding of the subject matter but also the ability to convey complex
information in a clear, concise, and compelling manner.
I
take great pride in having my work published in leading scientific journals.
This achievement is a testament to the quality and significance of my research.
Writing a scientific paper is a demanding task, requiring a delicate balance of
technical expertise, analytical thinking, and narrative clarity. It is through
these publications that I have been able to contribute meaningfully to the field
of organic chemistry and its application in medicine, marking my commitment to
advancing scientific knowledge and its practical applications.
Influence of chemistry on career
My
journey towards becoming an educator was profoundly influenced by a figure who
exemplifies the pinnacle of academic and pedagogical excellence—my professor in
pharmaceutical and drug development chemistry. He stands out not just as an
educator but as a mentor and a role model, embodying the essence of what it
means to inspire and enlighten students.
His
expertise in organic chemical synthesis was unparalleled, but what truly set
him apart was his approach to teaching. His classes were not only informative
but also immensely enjoyable, making complex concepts accessible and engaging.
He had a unique talent for intertwining intriguing facts and insights with the
core chemistry curriculum, enriching our learning experience beyond the
conventional bounds of the subject.
In
the laboratory, his strict yet effective guidance was instrumental in honing
our practical skills. Under his tutelage, we gained confidence and competence
in conducting various chemical syntheses, a skill crucial for any aspiring
researcher. His high standards in the lab ensured that we were not just theoretically
knowledgeable, but also practically adept.
His
reputation among students was one of immense respect and admiration. He was
more than just a teacher; he was a beacon of knowledge and a source of
inspiration, influencing how we perceived and engaged with the world of
chemistry. Despite advancing in age, his dedication to his work remains
undiminished. He often remarks that his continued engagement in teaching and
research keeps him youthful and vibrant.
As
I reflect on my career as an educator, it is clear that he has been my greatest
inspiration. My aspiration is to emulate his blend of profound knowledge,
engaging teaching style, and unwavering commitment to student success. I aim to
be for my students what he has been for himself—a mentor who not only imparts
knowledge.
But it also ignites a passion for learning and discovery. His influence has been the guiding light in my professional path, shaping my approach to teaching and my aspiration to leave a lasting impact on my students.
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