Noyce Scholar Profile

Rebecca Hoy
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics 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:
Greeley District 6 and Eaton School District
Background:
I am a senior from the University of Northern Colorado studying Mathematics with an emphasis in secondary education. I am originally from Solon, Iowa. I have recently passed the Colorado Place test. I am involved with many clubs and organizations on campus including (but not limited to,) Student Senate, Greek Life, the President’s Leadership Program, and the Center for Peer Education. I have been a Noyce intern in several schools of Greeley District 6.
Why do you want to teach:
I realized I enjoyed math in high school. My teachers made classes interesting by putting more of an emphasis on learning instead of working for a good grade. This positively influenced my attitude toward math because I learned how to learn. This impact led me to think about a future in mathematics. I knew I wanted to teacher because of my experience as a Noyce Intern. I had a gratifying experience when I worked in Greeley District 6. I enjoyed helping students with their homework and utilizing technology activities the most. It was also great to make a positive influence on another student’s academic career. The impact I can make on students through math became my sole reason in wanting to become a math teacher.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
Part of my Noyce internship was spent at the an alternative high school in Greeley. I ran my own math tutoring program for students who needed help on homework, technology activities, and studying. I had a student who was unsure of what he wanted to do after high school. Talking to him about career and post secondary education options was very rewarding. It was rewarding because he found hope in what he wanted to pursue after high school. I think this one of the many ways a teacher can make an impact on students’ lives. I enjoy this example most because it took place outside of talking about my content area of math and focused on the student’s needs.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has taught me how to be confident inside of the classroom. I enjoyed working with the diverse population of learners and I have great ideas to incorporate into my own classes because of my experience with the Noyce program. I also enjoy that the Noyce program keeps you updated on current events of education. Without the Noyce program, I would not feel as well prepared for my future career as a mathematics teacher.