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For Dr. Susan Brigman, the threads of her personal passions and professional life are more closely connected than they first appear. A professor of psychology, she has found that hobbies like crochet and puzzles do more than bring her joy. They provide lessons she carries into the classroom.

In her free time, Dr. Brigman often turns to yarn and puzzle pieces to unwind. Both hobbies, she explains, offers a balance of focus, patience and a challenge.

“With crochet, I enjoy that every project is a chance to learn something new. With puzzles, I enjoy the way small details gradually come together to create a bigger picture. Both activities help me quiet my mind and feel refreshed.”

What began as simple pastimes soon wove their way into her teaching philosophy.

“Every time I teach a course, I learn something new, often from my students. Just like with crochet and puzzles, small insights and details eventually add up to something larger: a student’s growth over time.”

The qualities she learned from her hobbies shape how she mentors.

“Crocheting and puzzles remind me that progress happens one small step at a time. I use the same approach in teaching by breaking complex ideas into manageable parts so students can build confidence.” She continues, “Students often start uncertain of their path, but over time they add skills, insights and confidence. Like granny squares becoming a blanket, those pieces come together into a clear professional identity.”

By weaving her personal interests into her work, Dr. Brigman fosters a deeper sense of connection with her students. Her approach reflects the University’s commitment to forming relationships that support not just academic success but personal growth.

“Mentoring and growth are at the heart of everything I do. I love supporting others, whether my students or my daughters, as they discover new skills and directions for their lives.”