Faculty Friday: Eriko Motegi Heise

We are excited to introduce you to Eriko Motegi Heise, a highly accomplished SUNY Corning Community College faculty member. She is an expert in the field of STEM, particularly in Biology.

Professor Heise has taught various courses over the years, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. She is passionate about running CCC's Japanese Language & Culture Club (JLCC), where she's been able to teach students about the beauty of the Japanese language and culture. Professor Heise encourages students to explore their unique cultural heritage through events like the annual International Fashion Show. Her love for Science and Japanese culture shines through in everything she does.

Professor Heise's story is inspiring, showing how important it is to pursue our passions and share them with others. Read on to find out more about her journey as a professor and leader in the Japanese club.

Q: When did you begin working at SUNY CCC, and why/how did you end up here?
A: I began working at CCC in the fall of 2010. I was teaching at a community college as an adjunct and full-time at a high school in Virginia and was looking for a full-time teaching position at a community college. I went to SUNY-ESF, so returning to New York was good.

Q: What classes do you teach at SUNY CCC? 
A: Currently, I am teaching General Biology I/II (BIOL 1510/1520), Intro to Biology-Food Science (BIOL1060), and Natural Science-Chemistry/Biology Module (SCIN1120).

Q: What's your favorite part about being a faculty member at SUNY CCC?
A: I love being a faculty member at CCC, with its beautiful nature surrounding the campus. It feels like coming to a camping site every day!

Q: What's been the best part of your professional career?
A: The best part of my professional career is sharing what I know about the natural world with my students and seeing them become more interested and care about the natural world they live in.

Q: What's one thing most people don't know about you?
A: After seeing Halley's Comet in 1986 in Australia, I went back and lived there for three years before coming to the US. I fell in love with marsupials, which have been my favorite group of animals since!

Q: What do you like to do during your free time/time outside of the classroom?
A: I enjoy writing haiku during my free time. I began practicing haiku two and half years ago and have had several haiku published in books and magazines. I have also made friends with many haiku artists. It is going to be my lifelong hobby!