News Article

Jake Qualls, an instructor of Computer Science, is working with the Governor’s Computer Science Initiative to bring quality computer science courses to all Arkansas schools.

Jake Aaron Qualls

What makes a good professor?

A good professor is one who is dedicated, passionate and challenges his/her students.

Who was your favorite teacher (and why)?

I have two. My high school math teacher, Larry Rodgers, and the late Computer Science professor, Robert Rossa, were both influential teachers in my life. They were dedicated to their work and always willing to help a painfully shy student, such as myself.

What makes for a good student?

A good student, above all else, should be motivated and curious. Motivated to spend the time and effort learning the material and curious enough to explore the subject matter outside the classroom.

Your philosophy on education in seven words:

Plant the seed and help it grow.

If you could teach another field, which one and why?

Art because I love to create things. I enjoy photography, painting and art history. However, my artistic aspirations far exceed my artistic abilities.

What music is playing in your car?

Blur, Radiohead, The National and Beck

What is your favorite podcast?

The TED Radio Hour on NPR

The television series I must TiVo...

The Americans.

The last book I read for fun was...

Just Kids by Patti Smith.

My favorite trip was...

to New York City. It was a fun filled week of art museums and Broadway musicals.

If I could travel anywhere it would be...

to Tibet.

What are you working on right now?

I am currently working in the area of Computer Science education. I have had the opportunity to collaborate with Arkansas educators on the Governor’s Computer Science Initiative to bring quality computer science courses to all Arkansas schools. In continuation of this collaboration, I am exploring ways that A-State can support the future demand for qualified computer science teachers at the secondary level.

Four people I’d take to coffee...

The main cast of Big Bang Theory in character as Leonard Hofstadter, Sheldon Cooper, Howard Wolowitz and Rajesh Koothrappali.

My hobby is...

Photography.

My passion is...

Being in the classroom and interacting with students.

My pro sports team is...

the Boston Bruins.

My pet peeve is...

drivers who don’t use the turn signal.

My favorite meal is...

my wife’s homemade stromboli with extra cheese.

A perfect day is...

one spent with family and friends watching movies, swimming or playing video games.

What I like about Jonesboro is...

it’s a great place to raise kids and it’s close to family.

Cats or dogs?

Dogs. We have a Yorkipoo named Charles Barkly.

E-book or hardback?

E-books because they’re easier to carry around. Thanks Apple!

Beach or mountains?

Definitely the mountains. There’s much more to explore.

Dinner or supper?

Either one as long as someone else is cooking it.

I wish I could...

travel through time like Dr. Who.

Only my friends know I...

have had a crush on Molly Ringwald since 1986.

My favorite saying is...

“Life is what happens while you are busy making other plans.” – John Lennon