He Came for the Pub Quiz and Stayed for the Poetry

In this edition of Diary of a Quizmaster, Dr. Andy remembers Ananya, a concrete expert who found his way from the Davis pub quiz to Poetry Night, and eventually to Zoom office hours for coaching on his own poems. This is how he qualifies as one of Dr. Andy's students. Ananya brought together an extraordinary range of interests: structural engineering, Langston Hughes, John Bunyan, Pilgrim’s Progress, and Lonesome Dove. His story is one of intellectual curiosity, unexpected friendships, and the place poetry can hold in the lives of scientists and engineers. Dr. Andy also reflects on America’s loss of talented scholars like Ananya, whose experiences with the immigration system ultimately took his knowledge, kindness, and expertise to Canada. Please like, subscribe, and join us for another memorable story from my 365 favorite students.