Francesca I. Gerbic
Nashville
Summary
Applied sociology instructor dedicated to connecting classroom learning with community engagement and social impact. Skilled in creating accessible, discussion-driven courses that inspire critical thinking.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Adjunct Instructor of Sociology
Volunteer State Community College
10.2025 - Current
- Taught SOCI 1010: Introduction to Sociology (in-person and online) and SOCI 1040: Social Problems (in-person).
- Designed and delivered all lectures, assessments, and discussion activities aligned with departmental learning outcomes.
- Integrated multimedia resources (PowerPoint, TED Talks, and current research) to connect theory to lived experience.
- Facilitated inclusive, discussion-driven classrooms emphasizing applied sociology and critical thinking.
- Provided timely, individualized feedback and maintained ongoing communication to support academic success.
Adjunct Instructor of Sociology
Columbia State Community College
09.2025 - Current
- Instructor for SOCI 2010: Marriage & Family, a synchronous online course taught via Zoom.
- Designed and delivered all instructional materials, including lectures, PowerPoint presentations, quizzes, and discussion activities aligned with departmental learning outcomes.
- Created an engaging, student-centered learning environment emphasizing the sociological study of relationships, gender roles, and family structures.
- Integrated multimedia examples and current sociological research to connect theory to contemporary lived experiences.
- Provided timely, individualized feedback and fostered critical thinking through guided class discussions and applied analysis.
Graduate Teaching Associate
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
08.2024 - 08.2025
- Instructor of record for SOCI 110: Social Problems and SOCI 341: Social Inequalities.
- Designed course syllabi, lectures, and assessments connecting sociological theory to contemporary issues of inequality and justice.
- Facilitated student-centered discussions that encouraged application of theory to real-world social problems.
- Provided individualized feedback on written assignments and supported students through ongoing academic mentoring.
- Collaborated with faculty mentors to ensure course alignment with departmental learning outcomes.
Graduate Teaching Assistant
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
08.2023 - 05.2024
- Assisted lead instructor with multiple sections of SOCI 101: Introduction to Sociology across fall and spring semesters.
- Graded exams, essays, and discussion assignments for large undergraduate classes with attention to consistency and fairness.
- Supported classroom instruction through supplemental tutoring, student outreach, and discussion facilitation as needed.
- Collaborated with faculty to ensure timely assessment and alignment with departmental standards.
Education
M.A. - Applied Sociology
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville, TN07-2025
B.A. - Sociology
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville, TN05-2023
Skills
- D2L/Brightspace, Canvas, and Zoom (instructional platforms)
- Course and curriculum design
- Multimedia instruction and classroom technology integration
- Applied sociology research and data interpretation
- Academic and professional writing
- Student engagement and inclusive pedagogy
- Collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork
- Adaptability and time management
AREAS OF TEACHING INTEREST
- Social Inequality
- Family
- Marriage
- Social Problems
- Introduction
- Applied Sociology
COURSES TAUGHT
- SOCI 1010 – Introduction to Sociology
- SOCI 1040 – Social Problems
- SOCI 2010 – Marriage & Family
- SOCI 110 – Social Problems (UTK)
- SOCI 341 – Social Inequalities
Timeline
Adjunct Instructor of Sociology
Volunteer State Community College
10.2025 - Current
Adjunct Instructor of Sociology
Columbia State Community College
09.2025 - Current
Graduate Teaching Associate
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
08.2024 - 08.2025
Graduate Teaching Assistant
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
08.2023 - 05.2024
M.A. - Applied Sociology
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
B.A. - Sociology
University of Tennessee, Knoxville