Margaret Mook knows the importance of studying abroad. It was an experience in Greece more than 20 years ago that made her realize she wanted to be an archaeologist.

Mook, associate professor of foreign languages and literatures, has since made it her mission to give ISU students the same opportunity she once had — the opportunity to realize what career they really want.

“These sorts of opportunities are really important to be involved in, especially to have the opportunity to be involved in the research process of the professor,” Mook said. “Students really benefit from this experience and it really helps them to develop professionally.”

Mook’s dedication to study- abroad experiences helped her become one of five Master Teachers in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

LAS Dean Peter Rabideau called Mook an “outstanding faculty member.”

“She exemplifies the synergism of research and teaching,” Rabideau said. “Not only does she bring the experiences of her archaeological excavations in Crete to the classroom, she also brings Iowa State students to Crete to help her dig.”

Mook is the co-director of a new excavation program that will take place in Crete over a five-year period. The program will allow ISU students experience almost every aspect of archaeological digs.

Graduate students, specialists, and scientists from institutes such as the Smithsonian will work with students from Iowa State and other universities.

“This is such a unique opportunity for Iowa State students,” Mook said. “You can’t do this program just anywhere.”

Mook said Iowa State is one of four American universities that has an excavation program in Greece.

“Opportunities are very limited for American students because excavation is very controlled by the government over there,” she said. “We are really hoping that students will take advantage of this opportunity.”

Leah Holck, senior in anthropology, went to Crete with Mook two years ago.

“Her knowledge of the country, its culture, and especially its history made it a fabulous experience for all of us,” Hock said. “And aside from learning something about Greek archaeology and seeing some of the most beautiful places on the planet, we just really had a lot of fun with her.”

Holck said Mook deserved the recognition.

“It was great to be able to see what a professor does outside of the classroom, to see them in their element, where their passion lies,” she said.