Mack Armstrong, a laboratory instructional specialist in the Department of Comparative Biosciences, began working at the college in 2023.
When did you begin working at the College of Veterinary Medicine?
I started working here in July 2023.
Describe your role at the college.
As a laboratory instructional specialist my job is to create anatomical specimen for students, instruct students during anatomy lab, and help develop new teaching and study materials.
Have you held any previous titles or responsibilities at the college?
This is my first role at U of I. Previously I was an anatomy teaching assistant at Colorado State University where I completed my master’s degree in biomedical sciences and animal anatomy.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is interacting with students and coming up with new ways to teach anatomy. I love being able to explain a concept to a student in a way that really resonates with them, and I get to see that switch flip when they finally understand it.
Complete this sentence: My most memorable day at work was…
… finishing a skeletal build of a hawk. Dr. Lowery challenged me to create a scene where a hawk was flying down to catch its prey and after a few long weeks, I was able to complete it for him!
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
In my free time I enjoy crocheting, reading, and taking care of my many house plants.
What is something your co-workers may be surprised to know about you?
My coworkers would be surprised to know that I am a HUGE fan of Batman! I grew up watching the old Adam West Batman tv show from with 60s with my dad and I’ve loved Batman ever since.
What is one thing on your bucket list?
I want to go to all the Disney parks around the world. So far, I’ve made it to Disney World and Disneyland.
Do you have a favorite restaurant or place in the Champaign/Urbana area?
My favorite place in Champaign is Planted. It’s an amazing women-owned plants store downtown. I’m always adding to my plant collection!
Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?
I can’t go a day without my headphones. They are a necessity for dissecting all day at work!
Do you have any pets?
I have two cats, Friday (black) and Murphy (calico). Both ladies are about a year and a half old.
