Noyce Scholar Profile
Kara Maldonado
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Biology
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Secondary Composite Science
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Texas at Arlington UTeach
Current academic or teaching status:
Post-baccalaureate; pre-service teacher
School and school district:
Observation hours completed at HEBISD
Background:
I have a diverse educational background that began in homeschool. I then attended private school for a few years before entering the public school system in 6th grade. I graduated from Trinity High School and then attended the University of Texas at Arlington, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. I am now seeking my post-baccalaureate certification in Secondary Composite Science.
Why do you want to teach:
I started my college career with the intention of becoming a nurse. After being accepted into the nursing program at UT Arlington, I quickly realized that it was not my calling in life. I thought I wanted “more” in the medical field so decided to major in Biology with the intention of going to medical school. After graduating and working side-by-side with several doctors for the next couple of years, I realized that being a doctor was not my calling in life either! I am now working toward becoming a school counselor. Teaching is a valuable stepping stone along my path to reach that goal.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
So far, my only experience in the classroom (other than being a student myself) is observing several different high school science classes. An important concept I took away was that teaching requires an incredible amount of patience and acceptance. Teachers encounter every single type of student – no matter the subject they are teaching. Teachers have to be every student’s advocate, and we must have the patience and the accepting heart and mind to help our students with whatever they may be faced.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has provided me with the incredible financial opportunity to start my journey toward becoming a counselor. More importantly, it has provided me with a strong network of supportive teachers at UT Arlington.
