Read all about Paula Temple below!

Q1. What inspired you to pursue mathematics as a field of study?

I had a calculus teacher here, Max Rose, who later became the vice president. When I was in his class, I told him I was planning to go into pharmacy. He looked at me and said, “You would hate it — you’re too much of a people person.”

He told me he thought I should teach. He said I was good with people and good at math. I’ll never forget what he told me: “If you can earn a degree in mathematics, you can do whatever you want.” That really stuck with me and changed my direction.

Q2. Where did you go to school, and what was your journey like to get here?

I started here when it was still Dixie Junior College. Then I transferred to SUU, where I was the only female in my graduating class — there were just 12 of us total.

Because our class was so small, we really became a team. We went through the program together, supported each other, and formed strong study groups. It made the experience much more enjoyable and far less overwhelming than doing it alone.

Q3. What do you enjoy most about teaching math to students?

What I enjoy most is watching students gain confidence in themselves. So many students come in doubting their ability. They beat themselves up for a long time, and then something clicks.

When they finally say, “I can do this,” and realize they may have been capable all along — that’s the best part. Helping students build confidence is incredibly rewarding.

Q4. What’s a common challenge students face in math, and how do you encourage them to overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges I see is skill level — both math skills and student skills. Things like showing up, staying focused, and being engaged in class matter just as much as the content.

But beyond that, many students struggle with anxiety and mental blocks about math. They’ve convinced themselves they aren’t capable.

I try to overcome that through encouragement. Even if a student is failing the class, if they show strong work on a problem, I make sure to point it out. I look for ways to support and uplift them. I try to create an environment where students feel comfortable rather than intimidated — where they can overcome fear and build confidence.

Q5. Can you share a memorable moment from your time teaching in the department?

I had a student with very obvious and severe disabilities. It was difficult for him to speak, and he faced significant social challenges. But the class was incredibly kind and compassionate toward him.

Toward the end of the semester, he came into class after retaking a test and announced that he had passed. The entire class clapped and cheered for him.

It was such a powerful moment — seeing students genuinely root for one another. They recognized his challenges and celebrated his success. That level of compassion and support in a classroom is something I’ll never forget.

Q6. What’s one piece of advice you would give to students who may be intimidated by math?

I strongly believe our thoughts have a huge impact on our actions.

I share a story with my students about a time I accidentally swallowed jewelry cleaner while packing during a move. I saw the word “poisonous” on the bottle and immediately panicked. I started hyperventilating, my throat felt like it was swelling, and I was convinced I was dying.

I called Poison Control, and after giving them the information from the bottle, they calmly told me, “You’re fine.” And instantly, I was fine.

I had created many of those symptoms because I believed I was in danger.

I use that story to show students how powerful their thoughts are. If you constantly tell yourself you’re bad at math, you can create anxiety and fear that feel very real. I encourage students to reset — to let go of past experiences and give themselves a fresh start. Don’t defeat yourself before you even begin. Give yourself a chance.

Q7. How do you see mathematics connecting to everyday life or other fields of study?

Math is everywhere, especially in financial decisions — taxes, budgeting, comparing plans, choosing medical coverage, and evaluating options. Even when it isn’t obvious, math supports good decision-making.

It gives you an advantage because you can analyze information clearly and make informed choices. I use math regularly in practical, everyday ways and also help friends and family apply it to their own decisions.

Q8. What do you find most rewarding about being part of the math department here?

The people.

We have strong leadership, supportive colleagues, and a fun environment. As I’ve gotten to know everyone better, the job has become even more rewarding. I always feel completely supported.

Being able to collaborate, share ideas, and talk through different teaching strategies makes a big difference. The sense of support and teamwork is what I value most.

Q9. Did you always know you wanted to be a professor, or did your career path take some unexpected turns?

My path has had many twists and turns.

I taught here for 10 years before moving to Arizona. While I was there, I fell in love with Arizona and eventually moved there. I became curious about the corporate world and accepted a position in the pharmaceutical industry, where I worked for seven years.

It was fascinating. I used math every day — analyzing reports, managing territory data, evaluating market share, and communicating metrics. It gave me insight into what we’re preparing students for beyond academia.

However, while corporate work offered higher pay, it lacked autonomy. Decisions were top-down, and I eventually realized how much I missed teaching.

I began teaching part-time at Scottsdale Community College while still working in the corporate world, and eventually transitioned back fully into academia. During that time, I also fell in love with yoga, earned certifications, opened a yoga studio, and trained yoga teachers for seven years.

Eventually, I returned to teaching full time — but those twists and turns shaped me in meaningful ways.

Q10. What’s one fun fact or hobby outside of math that students might be surprised to learn about you?

I love hiking, yoga, nature, travel, books, and music. I’m also probably overly obsessed with my dog.

Another fun fact — I genuinely love things clean. I’m not sure if I love cleaning itself, but I definitely love having everything clean and organized!