Noyce Scholar Profile
Brandon Nelsen
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Environmental Science
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Earth & Environmental Science, grades 6-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, ACT!
Current academic or teaching status:
Final semester of the act! program
School and school district:
To be determined
Background:
I am a student in the Alternative Careers in Teaching (act!) program at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. In 2004, I earned a B.S. at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, majoring in Environmental Science and minoring in Environmental Policy and Planning. I have always had a passion for science and am glad to be back involved with it; this time returning to be an educator in the field. Prior to returning to school for my teaching certificate, I have been working as a programmer and design engineer with an audiovisual technology company. These experiences will help me effectively utilize technology as a teaching tool. In addition, I have coached middle school athletics and taught 4th and 5th grade students Sunday school.
Why do you want to teach:
My interest to be become a teacher has stemmed from my involvement working with kids. Life’s opportunities have led me to become an active figure with young people. These roles have built in me a passion for positively impacting the lives of students. Consequently, my desire to mentor, lead and make a difference with the youth of today drives my aspiration to become a full-time teacher.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
My most memorable teaching experience hasn’t occurred in the classroom yet because I am finalizing coursework prior to student teaching. However, I have had memorable moments while coaching middle school athletics. In fact, in all of my seasons coaching I’ve had great experiences teaching the students certain talents and strategies. The most notable has come from spectators (parents, teachers, friends) who discuss how much improvement they have seen on and off the court with the kids. These conversations stand out in my mind because there is nothing more special than knowing my influence and hard work has been accomplished by the students.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce Program has meant an opportunity for me to progress in my teacher preparation program during a career change. The financial burden that this stipend will be relieving during my time as a student teacher will be invaluable. Best of all, as a future educator in a STEM field and by accepting this award, I know that I’m making a commitment to make a difference with students in a school district that needs it most!
