Noyce Scholar Profile
Paige Fredericks
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics Secondary Education
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics, grades 6-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Northern Colorado
Current academic or teaching status:
Senior
School and school district:
University Middle School
Background:
I grew up in Louisville, Colorado and attended Monarch High School. After graduating, I knew that the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) was the school I needed to attend to become a successful teacher. I am in my last semester at UNC and am about to start student teaching at University Middle School. I couldn’t be more excited!
Why do you want to teach:
In middle school and high school I had amazing math teachers that always encouraged me to have fun and do my best. I want to encourage my students in every aspect that will help them succeed. Teaching is such a gratifying career. “Teaching: The profession that creates all other professions.”
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
During the semester before student teaching, I took over one of my host teacher’s classes. I taught the students every day and was able to connect with each one. I felt like an actual teacher! My favorite part of being a teacher is the ‘aha’ moment when a student starts to understand what I am teaching. At the end of the semester I told the students I was leaving and the reaction I received from them was amazing. This was a great experience that I will never forget. I taught them, and they taught me.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has meant everything to me. This program has helped me put all my focus on my education and teaching and less on my financial status. I am so thankful that I am a part of this program. This Noyce program has given me confidence and excitement to become the best teacher I can be.
