Noyce Scholar Profile
Matt Nolen
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: B.S. Forestry, Resource Management
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Science, grades 6-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Northern Colorado
Current academic or teaching status:
Graduate Student
School and school district:
Niowt High School
Background:
While earning my undergraduate degree in forestry, I worked at a summer camp and had the opportunity to lead groups for week-long camp sessions. Later I also facilitated high adventure activities for the same organization. After relocating to Colorado, I remained in the outdoor education field by coaching alpine skiing in the winter and kayaking in the summer. During this time, I received support and encouragement to work towards earning a license to teach science.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to teach so that my students will have a greater appreciation and understanding of the relationship between the various fields in the sciences. I also hope to instill in my students a sense of stewardship for the environment and provide them with the knowledge to begin making smart environmental choices for themselves and for those who will follow them.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
Currently my most memorable teaching moments are from coaching children’s whitewater kayaking. One that stands out the most was when a student who had been very nervous and hesitant to paddle moving water made the choice to accept the risk and go for it. She had a blast and was very proud of herself. This moment stands out for me because I helped empower a young person to make the choice to accept the challenge and do something they did not think was possible for themselves. I hope to create moments like these in my classroom.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has enabled me to make the change in careers from environmental education and forestry to becoming a “classroom” teacher with little financial hardship and for this I an very grateful. Without it, I do not feel that this change would have been financially possible for me, and for that I am very thankful. I am looking forward to taking advantage of the conferences and other areas of support that the Noyce program has to offer.
