The sole purpose of pursuing my doctorate was to help bridge the gap between theory and real-world expertise. Educators should be able to incorporate their deep industry knowledge with the concepts of defined theory. Encompassing a passion to prepare students with ALL tools necessary to succeed in their career of choice benefits the young professional, the corporate environment and the educational institution.Lecturing students is not part of my teaching philosophy. Engaging students, challenging the norm, encouraging them to think outside of the box to solve real issues, that is what prepares our students to thrive within the corporate environment. Teaching is a passion, not just a job. Align your needs to surpass the needs of the student.By the way, this should be no different within a professional environment. Regardless of our titles, we are all educators and we should be open to being the student. You never want to be the smartest person in the room. Surround yourself with those you can learn from.Focus on the greater good of the whole not the individual.