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60 seconds with … Ilana Snyder

20 February 2008

 

Name: Ilana Snyder
Org. Unit: Faculty of Education
Position: Associate Dean, Research Degrees & Induction

How long have you been with Monash University?

Since 1991.

Prior to working at Monash, where were you located and what was your role?

Before I began my PhD full-time at Monash in 1987, I was a secondary English teacher at Presbyterian Ladies College.

What exciting challenges are ahead in your current role?

As the Associate Dean, Research Degrees & Induction, a key aim is to recruit high quality research degree students who will become part of the next generation of research leaders in education.

What is it about your job that holds your interest or is particularly satisfying?

Perhaps it was because I began my career as a school teacher, but I love working with the research students, trying to ensure that their experiences at Monash are positive and rewarding. My career also enables me to pursue other interests such as research and writing. My most recent book has just been released Literacy Wars: Why teaching children to read and write is a battleground in Australia.

Of all the places in the world you would like to visit/re-visit, where is your favourite destination and why?

Brazil. I'm going again this year to continue my work with colleagues in Sao Paulo on an international research project. Although I've seen very little of this vast country, I love its vibrancy, multi-culturalism and intriguing history.

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

Stop and think before you blurt out an instant response.

What is something about yourself that most of your colleagues wouldn't know?

I was living in Israel during the Yom Kippur War in 1973. I was working for El Al airlines and witnessed some very moving scenes at the airport. Parents waited for days hoping to see their sons, who were returning from studying abroad to join their army battalions. Some parents did not see their sons at the airport or ever again.