The Eccentricity of Professors: Tales from the University

Throughout my academic journey, some professors stand out for their unique and quirky personalities. These eccentric individuals have not only influenced my learning but also my outlook on teaching and mentorship. Let's explore the stories of a few of these memorable professors who were both talented and bizarre.

Red Wine and Tippling Professors

Before the widespread availability of the internet, I was an external student required to attend university once a month. One of the most memorable professors in the Economics department was known for his in-class drinking adventure. He would bring a large carton of red wine and white wine and a stack of paper cups, encouraging students to top up whenever they wanted. It was evident that several participants, including the professor, were quite tipsy by the end of the lecture. At times, he would just leave for home during the class for reasons unknown, leaving us cracking jokes and shaking our heads in amusement.

Personal Anecdotes and Writing

I have had the privilege of taking a writing course from a professor who, while extraordinarily talented, was also incredibly eccentric. He shared countless stories about his childhood, which included a grandfather who was a Mexican fascist morphine addict, a family known for fascism, and a teenage act of vandalism involving a brick and a glass window. Though some of his personal stories had nothing to do with the class, he often engaged in lengthy rants about his tumultuous childhood and personal life. Despite his off-kilter behavior, his teaching was invaluable.

Conspiracy Theories and Personal Reflections

Another memorable professor was fond of discussing 9/11 conspiracy theories, which was quite disconcerting to many students. During the middle of a lecture, he abruptly stopped to admit that his two sons were right-wing fanatics and that this realization hit him hard. He wondered where the extremism in his family came from. This professor's convictions, while misguided by many, demonstrated his passion for teaching, albeit in a rather unconventional manner.

Alcoholic and Traveling Economics Professor

One of the most iconic professors at the Georgetown School of Medicine was Dr. Alan Moghissi, who was 89 years old last year. He taught regulatory science with a unique flair. Another professor, Ted Sorensen, who was JFK's friend and coauthor, had a fascinating background that included his own eccentricities. One of my algebra professors would veer off into discussions about Jesus being in a Skinner's Box, eventually escaping through a black hole in space. He did this weekly throughout the semester, providing a blend of academic rigor and philosophical musings.

These eccentric professors, though offbeat in their teaching methods, are often the ones who make the most memorable and profound impacts on their students. They add a layer of fun and unpredictability that can enhance the learning experience. Despite their quirks, they are the ones who are remembered fondly for years to come.