Shining Student Dante Gentile

Educator by day and guitarist by night, Dante Gentile's journey at the University of Lethbridge has been marked by a passion for teaching and a deep appreciation for those who have inspired his career choices. He now sets his sights on teaching a social studies curriculum that rocks.

I've always had a great deal of respect for the educators I've had throughout my life, especially those who have exemplified knowledge of their subjects and treated students with respect and kindness. The thought of being that person for up and coming students makes me excited for my journey in the realm of education.

Meet Dante: Passionate. Musical. Creative.
Hometown: Medicine Hat, Alta.
Program: Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Education | Major: General Social Sciences/Social Studies Education

"Dante has an infectious personality," says Dr. Chris Mattatall, associate professor in the Faculty of Education. "He's always smiling, participating and happy to be where he is. Dante sees teaching as an extension of his need to help people. In class, he is always the first person to volunteer or to ask questions."

What are three unique facts about yourself?

1. I’m a huge fan of music and it is my biggest passion other than teaching. I go to countless concerts and shows every year because I love live music.
2. I play and write music in my free time and I am an entirely self-taught musician.
3. My favourite sports team is the Edmonton Oilers, with Leon Draisaitl being my favourite player. Yes, I’m still upset they lost the cup final.

What inspired you to become a teacher?

I had some fantastic teachers in high school that made me want to follow in their footsteps. I have a great deal of respect for the work teachers put into helping their many students and their ability to always show kindness, I look up to them. Having moved to Lethbridge partway through Grade 11, I was very new to the city and my school, but my teachers made me feel at home. My social studies teacher, in particular, helped me feel welcome and inspired a higher interest in social studies. He influenced my decision to major in General Social Sciences and Social Education.

How have your professors or instructors impacted your education? Are there any faculty members who have made a big impact on your time at ULethbridge?

My professors have had a profoundly positive impact on my education and have propelled me to stick with it and power through the bad days. I've greatly appreciated Dr. Doug Checkley's sincerity and understanding in his classes. He is a person who understands what it’s like to be a Faculty of Education student at ULethbridge. I have also appreciated Dr. Chris Mattatall for his expert display of knowledge in educational psychology and teaching one of the most fascinating classes in the Faculty of Education.

Tell us about any learning experiences out in the field and how they have impacted your education.

Something I have learned while completing my practicums is that no matter where you teach, you will always have a vast range of learners with unique sets of skills and needs. This is a daunting thing to face when you are a guest in someone else’s classroom, but it emphasizes the importance of getting to know your students and striving to serve those skills and needs. Some students may be way ahead of the pack and some may be falling behind; no student is the same. You may not be perfect in assisting every student every single day, but as long as you put the effort in, relationships will form and your skills will only get sharper the more you do it.

What piece of advice would you give to future Faculty of Education students?

Plan as much as you can before you start teaching. It’ll save you a lot of time and stress. Additionally, get to know as many people as you can during your placements. Making connections matters and simply saying “hello” and introducing yourself can help you down the line.