Noyce Scholar Profile
Emily Heller
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Biology
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Biology/Science, grades 7-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Master Teaching Fellow
Name of Noyce institution:
University of South Florida
Current academic or teaching status:
Graduate student
School and school district:
Hillsborough County School District
Background:
In December 2011, I graduated from the University of South Florida with my bachelors degree in Biology. During my undergraduate career, I studied integrative biology and participated in various research opportunities. I worked at the USF Bookstore for almost two years, assisted a Graduate Assistant in an anatomy lab, and also worked as an academic tutor for USF Athletics.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to teach simply because I want to make a difference. To me, being able to make an impact on a young person’s life is an incredible opportunity. As a teacher, I hope to not only teach science lessons, but also teach respect, communication skills, and morality. I have always had a passion for learning, and I hope to share that passion with the next generation. I also want to share my enthusiasm for science with my future students, and help boost their confidence and creativity.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
While I have no formal teaching experience yet, being able to assist in the instruction of a rigorous anatomy lab was memorable. The course was called Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy and I had taken it the year before. It was awesome to be able to help the students with their dissections and anatomy terminology, especially because I knew exactly what they were going through. It was memorable because it gave me the chance to view a class from the instructor’s point of view.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has meant so much to me and I believe it will be an incredibly invaluable experience. It is providing me with the chance to gain skills and techniques necessary for me to become an effective teacher. It is also providing me with a great starting point for my career. What I learn from this program will have positive effects on my life for years to come.
