Noyce Scholar Profile
Jose Farfan Serrano
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Secondary Math
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Texas at Arlington
Current academic or teaching status:
Student Teacher
School and school district:
Sam Houston/ Arlington Independent School District
Background:
I used to believe math was the hardest subject in the world because it didn’t make sense. I didn’t understand why it was so important. It wasn’t until a teacher noticed my struggles with some of the basic concepts and decided to help me understand. She was the first teacher who made me believe that teachers care about their students. She changed both my life and my view of math.
Why do you want to teach:
This math teacher was also the first teacher who helped me to discover why math is important in the real world. I would like the opportunity to do the same for someone else. This is one of the reasons why I’m in UTeach. This program has the potential to encourage students to become interested in math. Thus allowing students to explore the world around them.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
One day, this same math teacher asked me to stay after class and said, “I can see that you enjoy some parts of this class. I can also see that you struggle with some of the algebra concepts. Do you want to understand math? If so, be here at 7:00 a.m. to receive tutoring.” So every morning for the next twelve weeks she would wait for me in our classroom. She would welcome all of the students with a warm and caring smile. She was the first teacher who demonstrated that teachers care about their students. She changed my life, my view of math, and my view of school.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has allowed me to remain in school and continue my dream of “changing the life of a student.” It has also provided me with wonderful mentors and professional development opportunities. Thanks to the Noyce program I feel secure in my ability to teach others.
