Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Mark French

Dr. Mark French - Professor, Civil & Environmental Engineering

Who or what encouraged you to join ISLP?

My invitation to learn about being part of ISLP came from two founding faculty of ISLP, Dr. Joy Hart and Dr. Kandi Walker, and the past ISLP Director Dr. Tom Jackson.  They interviewed me and invited me to participate as an ISLP faculty member.

When did you join ISLP?

I first participated in ISLP Philippines program in fall term 2012.  This was planned to be my “intro trip” but one student signed up for my STEM ISLP class and we worked together to plan service activities for the four Filipino schools.  Having never been to the Philippines, we used our best guess as to what activities should be.  The other faculty and students were supportive of our efforts and it was a huge success.  It has improved every year since 2012 with over 30 STEM students having participated in the Philippines ISLP program.

How many ISL programs have you participated in? 

I have participated only in the Philippines ISLP and have gone six times with number seven this fall term 2018.  Students and faculty ask me why I keep participating and the answer is simple.  There is an intangible benefit of the ISLP experience that envelopes every student.  It is difficult to describe in a few words, but a positive change happens as UofL students meet and work with students of Cebu.  This is why I encourage every student (and faculty too) to participate in an ISLP course.

What is one of your favorite memories from the trips?

Every time it is the initial arrival at the Filipino High Schools – they give us a huge welcome program with music and traditional cultural dancing.  This welcome reinforces in us the value of our visit.

Any advice for students interested in ISLP?

Do it.  Find a way. This opportunity is too beneficial and unique to miss.  This is not an experience you can get by making a vacation travel to the Philippines – the ISLP experience allows you to meet and know the people of the Philippines.

What is your top travel tip?

Prepare as best you can, but be flexible to adjust your plans as your journey happens. Experience the moments of the journey as it happens – not just the destination.

Is there a quote or saying you live by?

Choose to do the right thing even when it is difficult.

What was the last emoji you used? Hmmmmm. Thumb up.

What would we be surprised to find out about you? 

This summer, I went on a 7000-mile camper-van road trip with my wife Stephanie and two of our three dogs from Louisville to the west coast along parts of the Lewis & Clark trail to Portland Oregon.

What is the best piece of travel advice you have received or would like to share?

Nothing can replace the way your journey to a distance land makes a positive change in you. 

What place is top of your bucket list?

Hadrian ’s Wall path.