Read all about Jeff Harrah below!

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

Honestly, I started out as an engineering major and did that for about three years. By the end of it, I just realized I didn’t like it at all. So I stepped away for a bit and kind of reset. I already had a lot of math done, and I’ve always loved math. I also knew I wanted to teach and coach—my dad was a teacher—so it just kind of made sense to go that direction.

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

I started at Mesa Community College on a football scholarship, but I ended up not sticking with football because I just didn’t enjoy it. I was there for two years, then went to Arizona State for a bit. That’s where I figured out engineering really wasn’t for me. After that, I transferred to Northern Arizona University, finished my bachelor’s there, and then got my master’s a year later. That’s really where everything came together.

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

I just love when students start to get it. Like when something finally clicks and you can see their confidence build—that’s the best part. And honestly, when they start to enjoy learning, even just a little bit, that’s really rewarding for me.

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

A big one is just getting the work done and managing their time. There’s so much going on now—jobs, phones, everything—that it’s easy to fall behind. I always tell students to set aside time every day, even if it’s just a little bit, and stick to it. Staying caught up makes a huge difference.

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

There are a lot, but one that stands out is when a student got a 100% on a test—the first one they’d ever gotten. They were so excited. Seeing that kind of pride and confidence is awesome. That’s what it’s all about.

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

Give it a real shot and don’t give up on it too quickly. Put in a little time every day and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The biggest thing is just not falling behind. Once you stay on track, it’s way more manageable.

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

Math is honestly everywhere. Whether it’s budgeting, estimating, or just making everyday decisions, you’re using it. It also really helps with problem-solving and critical thinking, which carries over into pretty much anything you do.

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

For me, it’s the people. I love being around others who enjoy math as much as I do. We’re really collaborative, and I feel like I learn something new from my colleagues all the time. It’s just a great group to be part of.

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

Definitely some unexpected turns. I always knew I wanted to teach and coach, and I spent a lot of years in K–12 education doing that—coaching, being an athletic director, and eventually a principal. At the same time, I’d been teaching college classes as an adjunct for years. Eventually, the opportunity came up to go full-time at the college level, and it just felt like the right move.

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

I’ve coached a lot of sports over the years—volleyball, football, basketball, golf—you name it. And kind of a random one, but I actually love shopping and finding good deals. I also really enjoy spending time with my family and going to my grandkids’ activities.