Noyce Scholar Profile
Josie Adkins
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mid-Level Certification
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Math and Science, grades 4-8
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Texas in Arlington
Current academic or teaching status:
Junior
School and school district:
Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
Background:
I was born and raised in Texas. I began my education at Tarrant County College and earned my Associate’s degree. After realizing what career path I wished to pursue, I applied to the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) and entered in 2010. At first I attempted to get into the EC-6 teaching program, but felt I could do better with older students so went to the mid-level program.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to teach because I love helping people. I was a forgotten student in school and do not wish for that fate to fall on others. There is nothing harder than trying to recapture the knowledge that should have been learned at an earlier age.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
I realized that I could teach after my daughter entered pre-kindergarten in 2009, and after overcoming the obstacles that had been placed by not knowing my potential. I helped teach her pre-k class a few times when her teacher was sick. It was amazing. I felt so many dreams seeding and growing inside me; I felt compelled to continue in my search for a dream to pursue.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
It has served as a means of financial aid for realizing my dreams. I was a little unsure about the loans I was taking out and the fear of repayment after graduation. I have made some good friends and have support from people who have helped my dreams come true.
