History professor to teach in China
By Monique Bhimani
Staff Reporter

Asian history professor Peter Worthing has taught at TCU for only three semesters, yet he already plans to teach a course in Beijing this summer as part of the TCU study abroad program.

Worthing said the study abroad course in China will be three weeks long. Excursions will include going to places such as the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City Palace and the Temple of Heaven. In addition to upper-level history classes, an elementary Chinese language class would also be taught by a local professor in Beijing. Worthing said specialists will also be brought in to teach students about the local Chinese culture and history, including cooking techniques, among other skills.

“Not only did I learn the language, but I also lived and traveled in China,” Worthing said. “I loved taking the train from city to city during the breaks from school, talking to various Chinese people from all walks of life. It makes you put yourself in the shoes of the Chinese.”

Worthing studied at Tunghai University in Taiwan and later at Shaanxi Normal University in the People’s Republic of China for one year. He said the experience broadened his view of Chinese history.

“In addition to giving me some stories to tell in class to make certain points about Chinese history and culture, (my) experience lead me to understand the importance of seeing the world through the eyes of others,” Worthing said. “I think this is especially important today as the world seems to be a smaller place.”

Before coming to TCU, Worthing taught Asian history courses at Muskingum College in Ohio and at the University of North Florida. However, of the three universities, Worthing says he thinks teaching at TCU is best.

“My experience here at TCU has been the most rewarding of my career,” Worthing said. “The students are great. They are respectful, diligent and willing to work with the faculty to make class a productive experience. TCU has some of the best scholars and teachers I have ever had the privilege of working with.”

Laura Taylor, a junior history major, said Worthing is the best professor she has ever had. She said what makes Worthing is willing to help his students, more so than other professors.

“He’s inspired me to learn more about history,” Taylor said. “He is there for students outside of class and interested in (helping) past and present students. He really has a passion for his subject.”

Some students have even taken multiple classes with him due to his teaching style.

“I’ve taken three of his classes, so I think I’m a connoisseur on Dr. Worthing,” said John Athon, a junior history major. “If you’re a history buff, he’ll take it to a whole new level. He presents it with a hands-on approach. But even if you don’t like history, he’ll make it interesting for you.”