Once tutor, now instructor

Instructor Farshod Mosharraf (Mosh) started his career at De Anza College as a math and science tutor in 1990.

"Frank Soler brought him over," said Laura Bell, tutor supervisor for the Math, Science and Computer Information Systems Department. "He didn't speak the language, but he became a very successful tutor."

Having immigrated from Iran, Mosh initially faced difficulty finding a job, considering the relations between the Middle East and the United States at the time.

"It was difficult because although people had nothing against Iran, they had something against people from the Middle East," said Mosh.

Mosh mentioned his difficulty communicating when he first came to America because of the language.

After four years at the tutoring center, math instructor Rupinder Sekhon acknowledged Mosh's hard work and recommended him for a job at Portola Valley High School near Stanford, teaching math, advanced physics, calculus and chemistry.

Mosh returned to De Anza as a part-time faculty member in 1997 and has since established his grounds. He can be seen interacting with math and science students all over campus.

"I enjoy teaching in college where the students are more mature," said Mosh, after teaching at Portola Valley High School.

Mosh earned his degree in physics from Tehran University in Iran. He then continued for a math degree to avoid war.

Having taught at De Anza for more than 10 years, Mosh said he loves the college for its high standards, good departments and the diversity of students.

"The young students have a lot of energy that they give off and I give it back," he said. "They keep me young."

Mosh was inspired to teach by his older brother, who was also a math major. He enjoys studying math and physics and will educate anyone willing to learn.

"He is a hard, but a really good teacher," said physics major Rachel Larson. "He is dedicated to students and excellent at answering all questions."

"De Anza is lucky to have him as an instructor," said Bell, "He has a lot of patience, is easy-going, loves what he teaches and that's why he is successful."

Granted citizenship in 2000, Mosh enjoys Aikido and playing the piano and guitar. He also plays soccer with students, and is looking forward to starting a salsa club on campus.

"I want to learn to dance but I am still bad at it," he said.