Interview with Prof. John Stein As many of you know, BN1 or "The Brain: An Introduction to Neuroscience,” is one of the most popular courses taught on campus. So what makes this course so popular? Word of mouth has let the student body know about the wonderful professor who teaches the course. Here are the thoughts and anecdotes that John Stein offers to the Brown community. The Background: ~B.A. in Biology from St. Anselm College in Manchester, New Hampshire ~Ph.D. in Physiology from Brown University ~Courses taught: BN1, BN165 labs, BI20, BI80, BI160 Q. What do you think of Neuro 1's popularity? A. I think it's designed to be approachable for all. We teach the material so that it progresses from simple to complex. Q. Do you have any embarrassing moments to share about your teaching experience? A. Yes. I have stated some things factually wrong in lecture and had several students eagerly point my mistake out to me. Q. Do you have any interesting anecdotes to share about your own undergraduate experience? A. Well, I used to be a DJ in my undergrad years . . . back when vinyls were still in use. Q. Speaking of your undergrad years, what motivated you to get a degree in physiology? A. I was premed, but I wasn't one hundred percent sure that I wanted to go into medicine. I took undergraduate psychology and physiology, and I liked them, so I didn't go into medicine and pursued a physiology degree instead. Q. Since you yourself debated career choices, do you have any advice for people who want to enter the neuroscience field? A. Talk to as many people as you can, make connections, and just take advantage of the opportunities offered at Brown. Q. What opportunities in research are available for students interested in working with you? A. I'm currently involved in working with high school science teachers in designing methods of teaching that use the brain as a topic to teach the more fundamental concept of cellular biology. We're working on methods that will grab the kids’ attention. I'm also involved in research with adult education and have been lecturing at NAMI conventions. I'd always be interested in having students help me with my work. I also organize "Brain Awareness Week” in March. Basically, a group of Brown students design lesson plans and visit local schools to teach. We cover a wide variety of topics, including ones that really grab kids’ attention, such as drug abuse. I always make an announcement about getting involved with "Brain Awareness Week” in my Neuro 1 class. So for all of you out there interested in pursuing a career in neuroscience, or if you just want to participate in these activities, here is your first connection.