Faculty Introduction: Mr. Jeffers
Recently, a group of Sophomore writers had the pleasure of interviewing the newest member of Browning’s Computer Science Department, Mr Jeffers. A long-time expert in the robotics space, we hope you enjoy learning a bit more about one of the community's newest faces!
How did you come to Browning? What brought you here?
Robotics. I had a background in robotics at John Dewey High School. I met Dr. Ting at a city robotics event, and was part of her referee team. After the job opening, my connection with Dr. Ting brought me to Browning. After visiting the school, I enjoyed my visit and found that this was the right environment for me.
How did you develop a passion for Robotics?
My mentors built up my pathway in robotics. They are the reason why I have really found my passion in robotics, which I can now do as a career as a teacher. Instilling this same passion in my students is what motivates me to come to Browning every day. In high school, I tried robotics, and the team was so welcoming, which made me find a real passion for robotics and how impactful it was in my life.
What sports did you play?
Soccer was my main sport, followed by track in the fall. Robotics is usually busiest in the winter. John Dewey is a big school, and gave me many opportunities to try new things.
What do you like to do in your free time/weekends?...How do you manage a healthy work/life balance?
Time Management is the key skill. Sticking to a routine is important for me. “Let your yes’ be your yes’ let your no’s be no’s” There is always room to improve.
How have you enjoyed your time at Browning so far?...Do you have an area of improvement for Browning?
Something’s have gone differently than expected, but it has ended up being a positive experience. The opportunities at Browning give you anything you want, and allow you to find your purpose. I want to find ways to reach out with the 10th graders I teach, finding your purpose before junior year is especially important.
Spreading the word about the robotics program at the program is crucial. We need to communicate what our program is about especially in attracting students who love robotics and its extensive opportunities.
What is your favourite class to teach, and lesson?
Putting all of the concepts we do in class into activities is the best part of learning. I like to encourage creativity, as seen by my open ended assignments. These “open-ended” parts of my learning have been especially fun for me.
AP CSA is my favorite class. I love teaching programming which is what I do. Engineering is the closest thing to robotics, and hands-on nature keeps kids excited.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Brooklyn, NY and still live there today. I’m from the Caribbean originally, and spend a lot of time there in the summer
Favorite thing about NYC?
The location the city offers. The countless experiences our city offers is what makes our city “the city that never sleeps”
Tell us more about yourself outside the classroom…i.e. What’s your favorite food? Hobbies outside robotics?
I am a big soccer fan, and am potentially looking into getting back in soccer. I enjoy rock climbing and skate boarding. When not in robotics, I help with my church through filming. I also do gaming, although not as much as usual. Personally, I enjoy tinkering and 3-d printers, and I recently got a 3-D printer at home.
What is your experience as a teacher?
I initially planned to be a software developer before college, but then realized teaching was the best way to become more knowledgeable about what I really enjoy. Substitute teaching and robotics mentoring also made the opportunity to teach. After a paper in college, my professor told me that I would have a talent in teaching. Teaching is something I enjoy doing, and I was also encouraged to teach by professors and mentors.
