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SC 101: The World of Rural Iowa

Rural Iowa, and the rural United States in general, is often misunderstood, forgotten, or ignored. And yet the vast majority of Iowa is rural. In this class, we will examine and explore rural Iowa and consistently compare rural Iowa with other parts of the rural United States. The central focus of the class is on current economic, sociological, and political issues facing rural Iowa and how these current issues are related to urban Iowa. Once again, we will draw comparisons with other parts of the rural United States. Students will take several short field trips to rural businesses, farms, and towns. Students will have the opportunity to speak with large- and small-scale farmers, business people, and politicians about rural Iowa.


Meet Your ProfessorJohn Pauley

Professor of Philosophy, Department Chair of Philosophy

John Pauley, PhD

I am a professor of philosophy with a primary interest in how philosophical ideas overlap with other disciplines. I am also keenly interested in how ideas and creative thinking can inform constructive change on a small scale (first). I teach in all areas of philosophy and my professional life has led me to study agriculture, art, biology, ecology, economics, psychology and sociology. A large project in agriculture has led me to rural studies and hence this class. I approach the study of any place from the standpoint of respect and with the spirit of openness and honest inquiry. We need to learn about rural Iowa and from rural Iowa before we draw any conclusions.


Meet Your SC LeaderReade Reiter SC101 Leader

Hey everyone!

My name is Reade Reiter and I will be your SC leader for Professor John Pauley’s SC 101 class The World of Rural Iowa! In the fall of 2018 I will be a Sophomore majoring in Elementary Education. I plan on teaching either 3rd, 4th or 5th grade when I graduate from Simpson.

I am from Keokuk, Iowa and I went to Keokuk High School. During high school I was involved in many activities. I was in baseball, tennis, show choir, band and marching band every year. Additionally, I played football my first year of high school and swam my senior year. I also played basketball for 3 years. At Simpson I play on the tennis team and I am very active. I enjoy watching movies, listening to music, going on bike rides, eating ice cream, and sports. I am a huge St. Louis Cardinals, New York Giants, Oregon Ducks and Iowa Hawkeye fan!

Adjusting to the college life style can be difficult. While being your SC leader I will do everything I can to help you feel at home here at Simpson! I am excited to kick off the 2018 school year!

If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach out to me by email at reade.reiter@my.simpson.edu. Thanks and Roll Storm!


Meet Your Writing Fellow

Soon!