“Be prepared for a friendly and encouraging environment where inclusivity is emphasized.” This is what second-year Child & Youth Studies (CHYS) student Jahniah Tan said about Dr. Yana Berardini and her approach to teaching. 

New to Trent University Durham, Professor Berardini is quickly making a positive impact on her students. 

Prof. Berardini is teaching two courses this semester, Intro to Research Studies and Research Methods. In these courses, students learn critical and analytical skills, and explore the main concepts of CHYS from different theories and perspectives. Her introductory course sets the foundation for students’ CHYS education journey at Trent Durham. 

When talking about her approach to teaching, Prof. Berardini says she finds inspiration when students are "fully interested and you can give them that light bulb moment.” 

Prof. Berardini also loves being a mentor to her students. She was a student herself not too long ago and is able to relate to their situations and questions. 

“It’s important for me to be there for them. I don’t think any other position would allow me to do that. I want to be a role model for them and hope that one day they will go on to help others,” she said. 

Prof. Berardini’s research focuses on finding ways to understand and promote mental health and wellness of young caregivers, and how that intersects with self-compassion. Some of her research will be incorporated into her upcoming course on Equity and Identity in the Lives of Children and Youth.