I am a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Vermont. My husband, William (Sandy) Karstens is a Professor at St. Michael’s College in the Physics Department. We have two children, Bethany and Will.
I have a Minnesota background, having lived there from the time I was five until I left to study in Vermont. I earned my undergraduate degree in Mathematics with a minor in Secondary Education at the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, MN. After graduation I was hired to teach high school math at Elk River Senior High School in Elk River, MN (about 50 miles north of Minneapolis). During my seven years teaching at Elk River I was also the Cheerleading Advisor and I enjoyed cheering for the Elks in a variety of sports. When I decided it was time to pursue my Master’s degree I applied to the University of Vermont as a bit of an adventure–a chance to see a part of the country I had never even visited. I received my M.S. in Mathematics in 1987, was hired as a Lecturer for the semester starting in the Fall, and I have been teaching here ever since!
At UVM, I usually teach Fundmentals of Calculus (Math 19 and 20), Applied Finite Mathematics (Math 17) and Elementary School Mathematics (Math 15 and 16). I have recently added two new classes for educatiors: Geometry for Educators (Math 40) and Algebra for Elementary School Teachers (Math 95).
When I am not busy with school I like to read, knit, walk and bike. I also try to follow the Minnesota sports teams as much as I can out here in the East. Go Twins!! Skol Vikings!!
Contact Info
Office:
E303 Innovation
Phone:
656-8543
Email:
kkarsten@uvm.edu