An Interview with Mr.Du

How long have you been teaching?

6 years.

What classes and grades do you teach?

10th grade: Honors US History 1 and Honors US History 1 IH

12th grade: AP World History

Have you always been interested in teaching?

My interest in teaching started in college. I was an economics major at the time, so I finished my degree for that and I ended up going back to school to get my Masters in teaching.

If you were not a teacher, what career path do you think you would have followed? 

If I were not a teacher, I would do something involving sports and fitness, maybe like a physical therapist.

Why do you think history is important?

The study of history is important because it helps students develop important analytical and communication skills that they will need. To be honest, students will probably not remember all the content we cover, but they will continue to use the skills we focus on in class. In order to be productive citizens, students need skills like using evidence to support a claim or effectively evaluating and communicating an idea.

What made you want to become a history teacher?

I wanted to become a history teacher because I was actually not the best history student in high school. As I got older, my interest in the subject grew and I wanted to help other students like myself who didn’t love history be better at it and even learn to enjoy it.

What is your favorite era or class to teach?

World War I. World War II tends to get all the attention, but I find WWI to be underrated and just as interesting.

What is your favorite thing about WOHS?

My favorite thing about the school is the work environment. The other teachers have been friendly and supportive and my classes have been a pleasure to teach.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Lots of sports. Basketball and volleyball are the two I play most these days. I also like playing board games with friends.