Noyce Scholar Profile
Alex Kemphaus
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Secondary Mathematics Education
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics, grades 9-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
Northern Kentucky University
Current academic or teaching status:
Senior
School and school district:
Northwest H.S., Northwest Local School District
Background:
I was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio which has unfortunately caused me to be a die hard Cincinnati Bengals fan. I have always enjoyed mathematics for as far back as I can remember. I originally attended college to become an architect, but quickly realized that this was not my calling. I have been working full time and attending school for the last 5 years, but am set to graduate in May of 2012.
Why do you want to teach:
Simply put, I want to make a difference in the lives of our youth for many years to come, but I also want to bring back the excitement in learning mathematics.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
Two years ago I worked as a teacher’s aide at North College Hill H.S. in an Ohio Graduation Test (OGT) prep class. During this time, I worked with approximately 13 students who needed to pass the test to graduate, but who were not where they needed to be. Over the course of 12 weeks, I worked closely with these students and was able to help 10 of the 13 pass the OGT. The students who did not pass were extremely close and eventually passed in the spring of that year. This experience was rewarding, and the students were very thankful. At this moment, I knew I had made the correct career decision.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has provided constant interaction with both students and faculty who are experiencing or have experienced the situation I am going through. This allows an opportunity to seek help or advice when necessary. The Noyce program has also provided opportunities to partake of professional development offered at state and national conventions. In addition, the Noyce program has provided financial relief which eliminates stress and allows me to focus on my studies rather than work.
