Women's Basketball junior forward Sam Fuehring (Communication) on her favorite faculty member Ralph Merkel
Ralph Merkel and Sam Fuehring
By Erica Walsh
From sharing snacks to setting up volunteer opportunities, A&S faculty will do whatever it takes to help their students succeed in school and life. Just ask Sam Fuehring (junior forward and Communication student) of the Cardinals women’s basketball team.
The team is celebrating UofL’s faculty and staff at its Dec. 5 game versus UT Martin. Before they take the court, we asked Sam about her favorite faculty member, Ralph Merkel and interviewed Prof. Merkel about his experiences at UofL.
Sam Fuehring, junior forward Women's Basketball and Communication student
Who is your favorite faculty member and why?
My favorite faculty member would be Professor (Ralph) Merkel. The video communication class he teaches is fun. He interacts with the class and I feel like he gets to know everyone. He has a funny side to him. You can joke with him and he will joke back. He also is my snack buddy. When I bring snacks to class, I’ll share with him.
Why did you choose UofL?
I chose UofL for the basketball program and the chance to win a National Championship. The fan base and atmosphere that surrounds the program also caught my attention. UofL offered a lot of opportunities for me.
What’s your major and why did you choose that major?
My major is Sport Administration with a minor in Communication. I decided to choose that major because I wanted to still have a part of the sports world when I stop playing basketball. I am not quite sure what I want to do with the major yet, maybe become a coach or an athletic director.
What’s your favorite thing about UofL?
My favorite thing about UofL would be the sports programs. I feel like every sport is in good standing. Other than sports, my favorite thing would be campus. The size of the campus isn’t too big but it also isn’t too small. With that being said, I can walk campus within 10 to 15 minutes, which is very convenient.
Ralph Merkel, Communication
How does it feel to be selected by Sam as her favorite faculty member?
I’m delighted Sam chose me as her favorite, she lets me steal her snacks. She’s the perfect example of a student athlete, excellent in the classroom and on the court.
What is one thing you hope that Sam – or any of your students – takes away from your classes?
I ask students to treat class like a job: be prepared and punctual. Sam demonstrates both traits flawlessly.
What is one piece of advice you offer to students?
College is challenging, but you can succeed if you properly balance class duties with your free time. Of course you’re going to have fun — just remember to do the necessary class work daily. Post-school life won’t allow you to ‘cram.’ The habits you develop during college will serve — or hinder— you for a lifetime.
Tickets to the Dec. 5 UofL women’s basketball game at the KFC Yum! Center are available for $3 per person for faculty and staff. Purchase tickets online here and use the promo code Martin.
