My Teaching Philosophy:

“Most of my teaching has been around one of the greatest public policy challenges of our times – migration. But through my research and teaching, I have learned that

migration cannot be fully understood through words alone – it must be felt.

The weight of borders, the struggle for mobility, the tension between freedom and restriction – these are lived experiences. My mission is to help students understand the complexity of migration in ways that shape them as scholars, policymakers, and advocates.”

The findings from my research on climate migration were captured in this video as part of York University’s Microlecture Series in Sustainable Living.

Courses

HREQ3610 Student Assignment: Andrew's Cooking Video Tutorial on the Diaspora Origins of Spaghetti and Tomato Sauce from Somalia

Student Testimonials

“Having been taught by Dr. Su in several courses at York University, I can attest firsthand to her extraordinary teaching abilities. She approaches her teaching with a rigor and clarity that transforms complex material into accessible and thought-provoking dialogue. Her courses have profoundly changed the way I engage with scholarship, pushing me to question assumptions, embrace diverse perspectives, and hone my critical thinking skills. Through her thoughtful curriculum design and engaging delivery, she cultivates an environment of intellectual curiosity and scholarly excellence. Her firm but compassionate approach allows her students to feel both supported and challenged, and her influence extends far beyond the classroom”
— HREQ Student
“One assignment that stands out in my memory is the photovoice project, which required us to create an Instagram account to showcase our work. As a niqab-wearing woman, I have rarely been allowed to speak and illustrate my voice in a public forum. This assignment allowed me to discuss something deeply personal and meaningful to my life and share it with the entire class. Dr. Su made me feel not only accepted but celebrated for who I am as a Muslim woman. This experience was incredibly empowering, and I am profoundly grateful for the space she created for me to express myself fully. It is also important to note that Dr. Su wasn’t just this way with me but with all her students. If there is anyone who understands the term ‘inclusivity’ it would be her. She was understanding of everyone’s beliefs, religions, cultures, and lifestyles. She never once made anyone feel like they had to sacrifice who they were to please her or to do well in the class.”
— HREQ4652 Student
“Her mentorship has been invaluable. I saw firsthand how deeply she cares, not only for the professional development of her teaching assistants but also for her students. She invested considerable effort into creating innovative and meaningful discussions and designing experiential assignments that allowed students to empathize with the individuals they were studying.”
— Teaching Assistant
“Professor Su has also been an inspiration for scholars from the Global South, exemplifying how academic excellence and meaningful research can emerge from diverse perspectives.”
— PhD Student
“Professor Su has a remarkable ability to engage students, fostering a learning environment that is both challenging and supportive. Her collaborative spirit and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on my studies and beyond.”
— HREQ2310 Student
“Dr. Su’s class was enjoyable and the most engaging part of my day during the remote learning period following the COVID-19 lockdowns.”
— HREQ2310 Student

Commitment to Inclusive Pedagogy


My commitment to inclusive pedagogy encompasses ensuring that all students, including disabled students, receive the necessary accommodations to thrive academically. I adhere to the principles of Universal Design for Learning, which advocate for designing instructional materials and activities that accommodate diverse learning styles and abilities from the outset, thereby minimalizing the need for individual adaptations. By proactively integrating these principles, I aim to create a learning environment where every student has equitable access to educational opportunities, aligning with best practices in higher education. Due to these efforts, I was awarded the Staff and Faculty Recognition Award by York University’s Student Accessibility Services in 2022 and received an honourable mention in 2023. I was also asked to make a video for Student Accessibility Services to help empower students to engage with faculty members and self-advocate.