Ethan Buffalo
Multimedia Editor
One of Crowder College’s newest faculty members, Dr. David Prigel, is a lot more than meets the eye. The new Vet Tech instructor came out of retirement this past summer to join the Crowder staff and with his addition brings plenty of world experience and insight with him.
Having travelled to international destinations from Canada, Europe and Africa. Dr. Prigel describes the most memorable location he has visited as Senegal, Africa
“It was an entirely different culture. From dress to traditions to climate. The perspective of the people was entirely different.”
Learning perspective is something Dr. Prigel touched on a few times throughout the interview and highlighted it as one of the major obstacles he has faced in life. Describing empathy and learning the perspective of others as imperative to the human experience.
“Pre-judging people, deciding a person from this place or that family or this religion is different than me. Learning to accept that and embrace it instead of letting it deter you from getting to know them.”Quoting the idiom, “I was sad that I didn’t have shoes until I saw someone without feet.”
A bright perspective to be sure yet expected from Dr. Prigel who has survived both a cancer diagnosis and a previous motorcycle accident.Instead of becoming reclusive, Dr. Prigel looks to embrace any challenges placed before him and enjoys overcoming them. Adopting an almost carpe diem approach to life.
“What will happen today is totally unknown.” He continued, “Challenges provide energy and create interest.”
Dr. Prigel practices what he preaches, with future goals including running a 25-minute 5k, travelling to the Arctic Ocean in 2020 by motorcycle, and completing his scuba licensing certification this May.
A retired veterinarian, Dr. Prigel joined Crowder’s staff prior to the 2019 fall semester at the request of Shawna Estep when an opening became available. At first, he was hesitant, but the flexibility of a teaching is what enticed him to accept. Shortly after, Dr. Prigel learned about the opportunity that comes with interacting with students.
“I want my students to realize they’re an amazing person, they all have unique skills and abilities they need to exploit to the fullest and they all need to have fun. Learn from your mistakes,” he explained. “Don’t ever kick yourself for your mistakes.”
Dr. Prigel pointed out that the added pressure students place on themselves after making a mistake is like baggage that no one else sees you carry but weighs down on someone personally. He instead thinks learning and adapting to those mistakes are what is important, not the mistake itself.
Positivity, openness and experience are just a few things Dr. David Prigel brings to Crowder College faculty staff. Veterinary Technology Department head, Shawna Estep commented on the addition.
“Dr. Prigel brings real-wortld experience from over 40 veterinary clinics to our students education,” she said. “This also makes him flexible and willing to try new techniques,” added Estep.
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