On August 18, 19, 21, and 22,  Dr. Florian Barton Reyda from SUNY Oneonta gave a summer intensive class,  Parasitology.

Here are some comments from Dr. Reyda.

<Dr. Florian Barton Reyda from SUNY Oneonta>
The 2026 TMU Parasitology course was a pleasure to instruct. It was truly an international experience that was enhanced by the very kind and capable teaching assistant Sophie Limlingan. Dr. Limlingan provided key support before and during the course offering. The students were from Vietnam, Pakistan, Taiwan, and the USA. All students were fully engaged in course activities and allowed themselves to "dive deeply into the world of parasitology" as we learned about the major groups of parasites and their effects on the human population, and their significance in the natural world. Students employed their observational skills in the laboratory, especially with the use of the microscope and the preparation of drawings of parasites. We had an excellent "class culture" with all students being comfortable and outspoken during class activities and the discussions of research papers. During our time together I had the opportunity to learn from the students about their own cultures and in fact on the last day we were all invited to enjoy a Biryani rice dish from Waniza from Pakistan. One student told me after the class that "...you got me interested in the world of parasites and for that I am truly grateful." Suffice it to say, now that these students have had a parasitology course, they will continue to view the world from the "parasitological perspective" as they enter further graduate studies and their careers. I truly hope they all keep in touch.

<Impressions from a student who had taken Dr. Reyda's class>
-Why did you take this parasitology class?

As an international student who cannot yet speak Japanese, I was specifically interested in taking a class conducted in English. 

-How was the fish dissection in the class- difficult or easy, and for what point?

I found it really interesting and it was quite beginner friendly, or maybe the prior experience with using dissection equipment in my own lab helped me too.

-Overall comments

Taking this summer intensive was a great experience.  Dr.Reyda demonstrated exceptional teaching skills, perfectly balancing informative lectures with hands-on lab exercises. Coming from a plant science background, this parasitology course served as an excellent refresher of my foundational understanding, while significantly expanding my knowledge of the field. While the course design was highly productive, Dr.Reyda's kind and friendly behavior created a highly supportive learning environment.