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Thank you, Dr. Amsel

Our winter 2025 issue included a tribute to departing Professor of Psychology and Vice Provost for Undergraduate Studies, Academic Support and Institutional Effectiveness Eric Amsel, who mentored Weber State students for 28 years. We received the following letter from a former student in response.

I knew I was going to struggle with my research methods class. I was dreading it. I took it from Dr. Amsel even though I knew it would be tough. I also knew I would learn a lot from him. I knew I had to be there and really pay attention every single day. A month into the semester, my sister was diagnosed with terminal cancer and she lived far away. I knew I needed to go and be with her, but I knew I couldn’t miss a day of this class and pass it. Shortly after my sister’s diagnosis, we knew we were losing my grandmother, who I had lived with and cared for in her later years. It was a devastating time, but I was about to finish my degree and didn’t know how I would do all of the things I needed to do. Dr. Amsel was incredibly supportive. I didn’t miss too many classes, but Dr. Amsel made sure I was caught up and knew what I was doing. He made it possible for me to be with my sister, but still keep up with my class. I wanted to finish so my sister and grandma could see me graduate. We got through the semester, and I was able to do well in the class. Unfortunately, my grandma and sister died a month later, within 19 hours of each other, and didn’t get to be there in person for my graduation, but my sister knew I was graduating before she died and that meant so much to her. She was my biggest cheerleader. I will never forget what Dr. Amsel and the department did for me at that time.

— Dawn Polson BS ’11

Want to share your thoughts on something you read?

Email us at magazine@weber.edu. Please note letters may be edited for length or clarity.