Noyce Scholar Profile
Jessica Keen
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: B.S., Biology
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Science, grades K-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
William Paterson University
Current academic or teaching status:
Junior
School and school district:
N/A
Background:
I am an incoming junior at William Paterson University, transferring in from Ocean County College. At Ocean County College I received an Associate’s Degree in Science graduating Magnum Cum Laude and with the honor of being a member of the Phi Theta Kappa national honor society. I was Vice President of the animal rights club, a United States Institute of Peace scholarship program recipient, and spent my free time volunteering with the New Beginnings Pet Rescue.
Why do you want to teach:
In high school I had no interest in academics. I was bored and disliked going to classes so much I barely passed. Science and math were my least favorite subjects and at that time I was convinced that I was not as smart as my peers. I graduated high school in 2003 and had no plans of continuing my education. I thought school just wasn’t for me. After five years of working unproductive jobs, I decided to enroll in a Veterinary Technician program at a local county college, which required me to take basic Algebra and Biology courses. It was at this time I discovered my love and passion for science and math. I immediately switched out of the Vet Tech program and knew I needed to become a teacher. I want high school students to be given a fair and equal chance at education and not to be noted as “slackers” if they don’t understand a topic and get poor grades. Although Biology is a difficult subject, I believe that if taught the correct way, it can be enjoyable for students, and they will not view it as an uninteresting subject. I want to help students discover their true potential and never let them believe that they are not good enough or not smart enough–not just in the Biology classroom, but in the real world.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
My Introduction to Algebra instructor at Ocean County College was the first teacher who made me believe in myself and have the confidence to excel. She understood that I needed that little extra attention and that I was too shy at the time to ask for it. She asked me to stay after class, instead of just letting me leave confused like most teachers do. She really truly cared about her students, like every teacher should. In this meeting with her it was like a light bulb went on, and she flipped the switch. Since that moment my life has never been the same, and I have her to thank for it.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program is a great opportunity for future educators to receive the education they need to make them stand out. Working in a high needs school district after graduation will be a great experience for all of us, giving us the ability to make a difference and really change the lives of children who deserve it just as much as any student does.
