Noyce Scholar Profile
Victor Cervantes
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: B.S., Physics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Physics and mathematics, grades 9-12
Category of stipend/stipend/fellowship:
Undergraduate Noyce scholar (junior and/or senior year)
Name of Institution:
University of Texas at Arlington
Current academic or teaching status:
Senior
School and school district:
L.D. Bell High School, Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
Background:
I am of Hispanic descent and grew up in Carrollton TX. At my high school I had memorable teachers who peaked my curiosity for physics. I went to the University of Texas at Arlington to major in physics.
Why do you want to teach:
I enjoy helping students learn and apply new skills and ideas that they can then confidently use to pursue their own career in any number of fields.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
My first teaching experience was at an elementary school. We were learning about orbits. I was nervous beforehand but as the class got going, I was able to apply the teaching skills I had learned in the UTeach program and was able to teach an effective lesson while keeping the students engaged. This experience was memorable because due to the extensive field experience I had through the UTeach program, I was able to get over my initial nerves and be comfortable in my teaching. I could see teaching as being a fulfilling career.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has meant the opportunity to pursue a career in teaching while gaining valuable field experience and guidance from certified teachers as well as a grant that allows me to focus on school.
