Tianran Zhang Receives 2025 Guarini Graduate Student Teaching Award

Tianran Zhang, a PhD candidate in earth sciences, has received the 2025 Guarini Graduate Student Teaching Award. The award honors graduate students who demonstrate excellence and dedication in undergraduate teaching and mentorship.

Zhang, originally from Beijing, China, and a graduate of Colorado College, has served as a teaching assistant for five earth sciences courses and has earned high praise for her clear communication, calm leadership, and ability to engage students with diverse backgrounds and learning styles.

"It is a huge honor and a much-appreciated recognition," said Zhang. "I've always valued teaching highly, and have spent a lot of effort to become a better educator. It is particularly meaningful to receive the award as an international student, with English being my second language."

Zhang's favorite teaching experience was serving as a teaching assistant for the department's off-campus field program, "The Stretch." "I'm a firm believer in the practical approach to learning," she said. "Plus, the nature of the program helps break down barriers between students and instructors."

Faculty describe her as a "generous and outstanding teacher" with a gift for helping students gain confidence and curiosity. "There is immense joy in seeing my students 'click'—grasping a new concept or achieving something they haven't done before," she said.

Zhang will begin a postdoc at UC Berkeley this summer and hopes to continue teaching as part of her future career. "Teaching as a grad student can be challenging, but it's incredibly rewarding," she said. "I'd encourage others to keep an open mind, seek feedback, and enjoy the process."

Guarini Dean F. Jon Kull '88 praised Zhang's impact,"Tianran exemplifies what it means to be a teacher-scholar. Her thoughtful, inclusive approach has enriched the Dartmouth community."