Noyce Scholar Profile
Bryan Feezor
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics Education
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics, grades 9-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of California Santa Cruz
Current academic or teaching status:
Start of first year
School and school district:
Vinalhaven Island, Maine
Background:
I have a great interest in the history of math, and have been involved in educating youth for a number of years. My experience includes working at the Boys and Girls Club while in high school to teaching SCUBA diving through college.
Why do you want to teach:
I enjoy the interaction with many people and the thrill I get from trying to explain an idea. My desire is to bring into the classroom that which is not often thought of in a mathematics class, namely, the history of the subject and the lives of the creators. What interesting stories they are!
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
What stands out in my mind is not what I have done as the teacher, but what a teacher has done for me. Namely, encouraging a student who was placed in low performing math classes that he could do better and be in the classes that interested him. When a teacher saw in me that I was capable of succeeding in AP Calculus, I knew how important a role they play.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
It has meant that I have someone to talk to about problems and to share my experiences. It has also meant that there are people wanting and hoping for me to succeed and that they will be there for comfort when I need it. In addition, I will always have a place to ask any question I have free of resentment from peers.
