Tara Hurt is one of two new teachers in MSMS’s chemistry department, where she teaches Advanced Chemistry and Organic Chemistry.
This year is Hurt’s 23rd in teaching. She previously taught a variety of chemistry classes, including General and Organic chemistries, at East Mississippi Community College.
Hurt said her experience with chemistry in high school led to her pursuing the major in college.
“I had a wonderful high school science teacher who taught me chemistry and physics, and it was just fun. When I went to college, I really enjoyed general chemistry labs, so I decided as my undergrad I would major in microbiology,” Hurt said.
After receiving her undergraduate degree from the Mississippi University for Women, Hurt went on to the University of Southern Mississippi where she conducted research across multiple scientific disciplines.
“I went to graduate school for biochemistry, and I really liked being in the lab. I finished my degree in microbiology, so it was kind of an evolving process,” Hurt said.
Before becoming a teacher, she worked for a company conducting research and development and then later became a research associate at Mississippi State University. She worked on a more rapid detection method for E. Coli O157:H7. Hurt said the area of research was a collaboration between biochemistry and analytical chemistry.
During her MSMS interview process, Hurt said she was amazed with the school’s students.
“During the lecture time I had with the students, they were eager to answer my questions even though I was a new face standing in front of them,” Hurt said. “I left impressed with the students and faculty of MSMS, and I was hoping to be part of that.”
Senior Jane Kasselman said Hurt keeps the classroom engaged and running smoothly.
“She pairs her notes to the TV, so that we can take notes with her. She doesn’t necessarily crack jokes, but she’s just funny. I don’t feel scared to ask her a question. She’s been very helpful,” Kasselman said.
Senior Poppy Bowling also said Hurt’s attentiveness has the ability to keep the class interested.
“She always stops to ask if anybody has questions, and she’ll notice if we’ve caught her eye and are confused, then she’ll go back over it. I think she’s just really dedicated to what she teaches. That in itself is really helpful,” Bowling said.
Hurt enjoys being in the classroom and recognizes the power of labs.
“I love being in the classroom. I like getting to know the students and helping them. I like getting them excited about chemistry. A lot of people are intimidated by chemistry, but I really think the labs can enhance the chemistry and make it come to life,” Hurt said. “Chemistry doesn’t happen on paper, right?”
Outside of school, Hurt said she loves running triathlons and biking, which she credits to her son.
“My youngest son started running triathlons, and I remember I would go and cheer him on. This past March, I competed in my first ever sprint triathlon, and I finished,” Hurt said. “I was proud of that.”
