Faculty Spotlights
Kenneth Atchinson
-
Department
Math/Computer Science
-
Hometown
Atlanta, GA
-
Biography
Bachelors, Electrical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
Masters of Science, Computer Science, Kent State University
Areas: Computer Security, Computer Architecture, Operating Systems, Networking, System Administration
Started working at BW in 1995 in the Information Technology department as System Administrator (2 years) and Network Manager (2 years). Joined the faculty ranks in 1999.
Questions and answers
Why did you choose to teach at BW?
I choose to teach at BW because I love the type of students that attend BW. They are inquisitive, intelligent and are a pleasure to work with.
What characteristics distinguish BW from other colleges/universities?
BW is a small college, which allows us faculty to give a more "personal touch" to the students. We get more interaction/contact with students than most other institutions, and as such we help our students succeed!
How do you mentor students?
I first listen and hear what they are saying. They have lots of great ideas but usually no life experience in moving their idea to a goal and then to a milestone to be achieved. I use my experience and the resources of the College (Career Services, Counseling Center, Student Success Center) to help them achieve their dream.
What do students like best about your class?
I believe they respect my knowledge and experience that I bring to the classroom. Computer Science is a rapidly changing field and I try very hard to "keep current on trends in the field". I then present this information to the students, relating it back to "standards".
If you weren't teaching what would you be doing?
I probably would be doing Security Consulting for a Fortune 500 firm. But I wouldn't be as happy as being at BW.
