Meet the Instructor

Hello! My name is Michael Aparicio.  I've been teaching at SRJC since 1994.  Before that, I was a student here from 1982 until 1986. I have lots of fond memories of discovering, exploring, and examining Philosophy at SRJC. 

This course will be taught entirely online.  While I've been teaching online and hybrid courses for over 20 years, and I enjoy them, I think it's important to speak frankly about how online instruction is likely to impact the learning experience.  In short, it provides a more flexible learning experience for students, while challenging students to be self-reliant and self-disciplined learners.  It will be important that you develop a regular and frequent study routine.  To help you do this, carefully review our syllabus and class website's resources.   And ask me questions when they arise. 

I encourage you to contact me via Canvas message or email.  We also can meet in person or over a Zoom session.  Don't hesitate to contact me.  

When I'm not pursuing Philosophy, I'm often enjoying backpacking and other outdoor adventures.  I consider myself lucky to live close to such wonders as Point Reyes National Seashore, Redwood National Forest, Mt. Shasta, Lassen National Park, Yosemite, Sequoia National Park, Death Valley, and more. 

In 2018, after my son, Mateo, turned 13, we celebrated by hiking the John Muir Trail.  Here we are atop Glen Pass:

And this year, before our class begins, I'll be joining some friends along a section of the PCT (i.e., Pacific Crest Trail) from Tehachapi to Mt. Whitney, then soloing along the High Sierra Trail.  

 

It's hard to know how long I'll be able to enjoy high-altitude backpacking.  My son and I once met an 80-year-old man atop Forester Pass, the highest point along the P.C.T.  With much effort, dedication, and luck, I'd love to celebrate my 80th birthday on a 13,153ft pass. 

  

I've come to see many analogies between Philosophy and backpacking.  Both can appear casual and carefree at first glance, but require dedication and discipline to reach their heights. 

Of course, there's more to me than my passions for Philosophy and backpacking, as there is more to you than the brief glimpse I'll get as your teacher.  Indeed, part of what I love about teaching is that I get to meet such a richly diverse group of students with amazing stories.  I'm honored to be your teacher and am here to help. 

If you have any questions now or during our semester together, don't hesitate to email (maparicio@santarosa.edu) or message me through Canvas.  

Michael