USU Eastern News Release
When Dahlia Maxwell joined the Utah State University Eastern faculty as a lecturer in mathematics and statistics, she brought with her a refreshing perspective, one shaped by a lifelong connection to science, math and engineering.
“I went to school in a small town with a history of emphasizing science, math and engineering, so it was a natural choice in that environment,” Maxwell said.
Before joining USU Eastern, Maxwell worked as an engineer in Washington, D.C., applying mathematical principles to real-world challenges. That experience continues to influence her classroom today.
“I try to give small examples during class of real times,” she said.
Now at USU Eastern, Maxwell has found a meaningful academic community.
“So far, I am enjoying connecting with the students and other faculty members,” she said. “Everyone has been very welcoming.”
One of the strengths she sees in the math and statistics program is its experienced and dedicated faculty.
“We have a great department with some experienced teachers,” Maxwell said. “They’ve been teaching these classes for a large portion of their careers, and it’s exciting to learn from them and pass on their wisdom to the students. I think we also have an excellent student-to-teacher ratio, so we’re able to meet with students one-on-one to help them succeed.”
Maxwell recognizes that math can feel intimidating for many students, but she works intentionally to make the subject more approachable.
“Something I try to do while teaching is to encourage students to engage with each other,” she said. “When learning any skill, having a community makes it more enjoyable and less intimidating. If they feel like they have other students to reach out to, they are more likely to have a good experience.”
Her philosophy centers on the idea that math isn’t an innate talent, it’s a skill anyone can learn with practice, like playing the piano or riding a bike.
“Sometimes students who don’t feel confident in math see it as an innate ability and feel frustrated when they don’t get things right the first time,” she said. “I want to help students realize that even if it takes a few tries, math is a skill that just takes practice.”
She hopes students understand that learning math is a process.
“The more we can help students feel comfortable in seeing math as a learnable skill, and to feel comfortable failing the first few tries, the more confident they grow,” she added.
Maxwell also feels strongly connected to the supportive environment at USU Eastern.
“Since I arrived on campus, I have noticed how much all the faculty members at USU Eastern are focused on helping the students succeed,” she said. “I can see the caring and personal commitment they have towards their students. I hope to follow their example.”
For students who may be struggling or who don’t see themselves as “math people,” Maxwell offers reassurance and encouragement.
“Not everyone is going to enjoy math, just like not everyone enjoys working out, playing piano, or baking,” she said. “But, just like working out, playing piano or baking, everyone can learn the skills they need to succeed.”
She wants students to understand the difference between not liking math and not understanding it.
“If you don’t feel like a math person because you don’t feel like you understand it, then I would want you to know that you can become a math person at any time,” Maxwell said. “It starts with viewing math just like going to the gym: everyone starts at a different place, but anyone can learn the skills and continue practicing until they see the results they want.”
Through her commitment to community, persistence and confidence-building, Dahlia Maxwell continues to make a meaningful impact on students across Eastern Utah — reminding them that success in math isn’t about being perfect but about being willing to grow.