Noyce Scholar Profile
Veronica Cadavid
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Biology
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Biology, grades 9-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
William Paterson University
Current academic or teaching status:
Senior
School and school district:
Tutoring field experience-Lodi Elementary School
Background:
I am the only child of parents who immigrated here from Colombia. I was born in Hackensack, New Jersey and have lived there for 21 years. Both of my parents did not receive much formal education in their country which is a primary reason why they came here—so that their offspring could get a good education.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to teach because I have always admired teachers and have loved most of my teachers. Throughout my life teachers have inspired me to become “one of them,” to help students and motivate them to learn about science.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
My most memorable teaching experience came during one of the first times that I substituted. It was in a 3rd grade class and of course, being one of the first times, I was really nervous. When I got to the classroom I saw the “substitute teacher” packet on the teacher’s desk and read the packet 5 times trying to memorize it (I do not know why). I think I wanted everything to just flow and to not have to keep on reading this packet in front of the class. Well, the day went almost perfectly in my book. Of course, every half an hour or so I had to read what was next on the agenda, but the day went well, and I did not have to discipline anyone. I actually felt for a second that the class was mine—I felt in control because everything was going well. It was a good feeling. This experience stands out in my mind because it was a glimpse into what my classroom could actually be like in the near future, although I know that not all days will run smoothly. This experience reinforced my thinking that teaching is definitely what I want to do.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has granted me the opportunity to focus on my studies especially during the last couple of years before graduation where the work load is getting heavier and material a bit tougher. This scholarship has allowed me to not have to keep a job and instead to use that extra time to study and/or gain experience through substituting and field experiences.
