NEW LONDON, Conn. – The measure of a good teacher is often one who thinks outside of the box and brings subject material to life. And what better way to bring life to a subject than to walk a mile, or two, in their shoes.
When upperclassmen sign up for Connecticut College’s “Neurobiology of Disease” with professor Joe Schroeder, Ph.D., they will be tested on material covered  in lectures on pathology and treatment options for a different neurological disease each week. They’ll be challenged to investigate cutting-edge research advances and report on new findings. And for some extra credit, they can step out with the subjects impacted by the diseases covered in the course.

“Each semester that I’ve taught this course, I’ve outlined extra credit opportunities for my students to put a real face on the subject matter we’re studying,” said Schroeder. “I research local community fundraisers, usually walks, that support an organization connected to one of the illnesses we’ll be discussing, and I challenge the students to join the team and participate for an extra credit opportunity.”

Recognizing the ethical dilemma that could come along with asking students to donate to the fundraising team in exchange for a grade boost, Schroeder has focused on giving credit for participation and recruitment – not the funds that a student can raise. Schroeder spreads the news to the entire college community, letting everyone know that they can join in, too.

“In the past, this course has been offered in the fall and we were able to participate in a variety of walks for local charitable organizations,” said Schroeder. “Multiple sclerosis has always been a part of my curriculum, but this year is the first time I’ve taught this course in the spring. I was excited to learn that the National MS Society hosts a Walk MS event in April right down the road at Camp Harkness, in Waterford.”

In addition to asking students to sign up and step out at Walk MS, Schroeder is also bringing in a person who is living with MS to speak to his class in hopes of creating a sense of connection even before getting to Camp Harkness.

“Getting the students to participate in these community events really is all about putting a face on the diseases we’re talking about in the classroom,” said Schroeder. “It’s the proverbial ‘walk a mile in their shoes’ realized.”
Ironically, Schroeder shared that he also has a personal connection to multiple sclerosis on his wife’s side of the family.

“Unfortunately, his disease has progressed and he is now in a wheelchair,” said Schroeder about his connection. “He’s had MS since before I met him 30 years ago.”

More than 6,500 Connecticut residents have self-identified with the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter, as living with MS, a potentially debilitating disease. The cause is unknown and there is currently no cure. Symptoms can include numbness in the limbs, difficulties with vision and speech, stiffness, loss of mobility and, in some more severe cases, total paralysis. The progress, severity and specific symptoms of MS in any one person cannot be predicted.

Check in for the 2016 Travelers Walk MS opens at 9 and begins at 10 a.m. The Waterford site will also feature a Mission Station- an exciting way for walkers to get involved, get information, earn rewards and gather some team spirit for the walk.

Each year, upward of 10,000 Connecticut residents step out for Walk MS across the state. This year, the Connecticut Chapter hopes to attract even more and has set a goal of raising $1.3 million for the fight against MS.

Funds raised by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Connecticut Chapter, through events, such as Walk MS, ensure ongoing scientific research to find better treatments and a cure, and provide vital programs and services offered by the chapter. While there is no fee to register for Walk MS, participants are encouraged to form teams and raise funds.

“I know my class has left a lasting impression on those who take it because years after my students graduate and go on to start their professional careers, I receive emails asking for our fundraising pages so contributions can be made,” said Schroeder.

For more information on the Travelers Walk MS or services offered by the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter, go to ctfightsMS.org.