Noyce Scholar Profile
BreAnne Kidd
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Geology
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Geology and Chemistry, grades 6-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of South Carolina
Current academic or teaching status:
Junior
School and school district:
N/A
Background:
I am a geology major and full-time student at the University of South Carolina (USC). I was born in Semi Valley, California and grew up some in the West Coast, but have spent the majority of my life in Columbia, SC. I have an older brother who graduated from USC in hotel management. I have always had a fascination with rocks and coastal processes, and my hobbies include traveling, eating and being around the people I love. I am not only an animal lover, but an animal activist. Go Peta!
Why do you want to teach:
I chose the teaching profession because I want my students to know how much fun learning can be. I want to make a difference in their lives through teaching science. I love earth science and look forward to teaching about volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, climate and all other aspects of the earth. One thing about Geology is that you spend most of the time in the great outdoors exploring beautiful structures of the earth. I am excited to get my students motivated about this field of study and to impress upon them how important the understanding of this science is to our future. Green technology is the key to future generations and the understanding of Geology is of vital importance.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
A memorable teaching experience relates to my seventh grade history teacher, Mrs. Bauld. I was terrible at history, but she made it so exciting to learn. Her teaching methods were outstanding, and she had the entire class involved. I remember when she had us dress like the Egyptians and go over the mummification process using our partners.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
This program has opened my eyes to children in need of a good education. I have been able to expand my knowledge and have a good plan of action when I begin my career. I was very fortunate to go to the Noyce conference in Washington, DC and meet with other teachers and scholars who gave me advice concerning the practical applications of the strategies and techniques that I will use in my classroom. Noyce is helping me reach my goals, one being to convey what I have learned about teaching in a manner which not only informs, but inspires a student to make a difference.
