I recently took time between the bells to interview new faculty member, Mr. Andrew Sopher. A recent graduate from Ohio State with a degree in Physics, he brings the expertise of algebra and chemistry to SSES. He explained that having a background as a physicist, he took classes in both of these subjects while in school. Taking time away from a busy schedule, here’s what he had to say.

Devon: How do you like Saint Stephen’s so far?

Mr. Sopher: I really like Saint Stephen’s. I like the rigor of the academics. The faculty and other administrators have been really great to work with so far.

D: Why do you like to teach?

Mr. S: I like to teach because I enjoy the subjects I teach and I think it’s very important for students to get an understanding so that they’re successful in their lives in the future.

D: What’s the best part of your day?

Mr. S: The best part of my day is when students who have had a difficult time with a certain topic finally get that “click” moment, and they understand.

D: If you had one word to describe yourself, what would it be?

Mr. S: Hard-working

D: Do you have a favorite movie?

Mr. S: The Shawshank Redemption

D: What’s your most memorable classroom moment, either as a teacher or a student?

Mr. S: I dressed up as a student last year for Halloween and that was pretty memorable.

D: Did you trick anyone?

Mr. S: I did, yes. Unfortunately.

D: Do you have any hobbies that are special?

Mr. S: I wouldn’t say “special.” I am active in sports and I have a dog I take a lot of care of.

D: When and why did you decide to become a teacher?

Mr. S: I decided to become a teacher about midway through my senior year of college after I had spent three years as a teacher’s assistant and instructing freshman courses in my free time.

D: If you could give advice to yourself as a high-schooler, what would it be?

Mr. S: Learn study skills early. Learning them in college is hard.

Above is a photo that perfectly demonstrates how Mr. Sopher can make any situation, whether it’s teaching complex chemistry laws or a friendly interview: relaxed and amicable. Mr. Sopher is a dynamic new member of the teaching staff, definitely one worth getting to know.