Noyce Scholar Profile
Ray Oja
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Secondary School Education
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Middle School Science
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
California State University, Northridge Robert Noyce Scholarship Program
Current academic or teaching status:
5th year
School and school district:
Ernest Lawrence Middle School, LAUSD, California
Background:
For a time I was an engineering undergraduate student, but finally graduated with an accounting degree. Since then I’ve worked in construction, real estate, accounting and retail. I’ve also operated my own company.
Why do you want to teach:
After being in the workforce for quite some time, I realized I wanted to do something important; something to help others. I’ve always been interested in science, and I’ve always been drawn to coaching/mentoring, so teaching science is a natural fit. Critical thinking skill is an absolute necessity both for a successful career and for life outside of a career. I want to help children gain this skill.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
I’ve only just begun student-teaching.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
I’ve just recently become a Noyce Scholar, but already know I will value the connection with my Noyce peers, and I also expect to gain broader exposure to the world of science education. And the support, both professional and financial, is invaluable.
