A self-identified teacher-scholar, Joshua Linkous is known—and loved—by undergraduates for his high expectations and for encouraging discussion and debate in the classroom. The PhD student in history and East Asian languages served as a teaching fellow (TF) for the intensive undergraduate seminar The History of Energy and continually impressed his advisor, Professor of History Ian Miller.
The course itself is demanding. Reading loads are heavier than they are in most classes. Discussions deal with the hot-button issues of climate change and capitalism, often becoming contentious. Peer-review and feedback are woven into the syllabus. This year, the course was over-enrolled because the shopping group was so large but still succeeded, according to Miller, because of Linkous. “He acted as a co-instructor at times,” Miller says, “and he pushed me to be clearer in my engagements.” He also inspired students to pursue additional research work by asking them interesting questions. His mentoring work in the class was so good that the Department of History received requests to pursue independent study courses under his tutelage, notable in a department where students normally seek faculty guidance.
Linkous’s commitment to students of The History of Energy was remarkable, even among teaching fellows who have won Bok Center recognition in the past. Whether meeting them for dinner in the undergraduate houses or speaking with them on Zoom about shared academic passions, Linkous takes great pleasure in the time he spends with students. So do they, largely because the TF is a good listener who, despite his own brilliance, keeps his mind open to perspectives and ideas different than his own.
“Where many of our graduate students bring their own political commitments to the fore in academic settings, Linkous exhibited a capacity to step back and listen to students of diverse ideologies and identities,” says Miller. “I know from his scholarly work he is progressive in his own commitments, but he found remarkable common ground with several students whose approaches approximated libertarianism.”
In addition to his outstanding work as a teacher and mentor, Linkous aided students in crisis during the pandemic, connecting them with CAMHS when they were struggling, bringing their needs to resident deans, and encouraging students to put their ideals into practice. “He has emerged as a talented teacher and mentor,” says Miller. “I am proud to advise him.”
Joshua Linkous, the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences is pleased to present you with the Derek C. Bok Award for Excellence in Graduate Student Teaching of Undergraduates. Congratulations!
Photo by Tony Rinaldo