Noyce Scholar Profile
, 
David Okesanya
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Biology
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: 6th Grade Science
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
Virginia Commonwealth University
Current academic or teaching status:
1 year of experience
School and school district:
Prince William Co. P. S.
Background:
I’ve worked in education almost since I graduated high school. I was a long term substitute in special education, an In-school Suspension coordinator, and a regular substitute all before getting my first teaching job. I’ve also done practicums in middle school band, sixth grade science, and 9th grade biology. I currently work teaching 6th grade science in Prince William Co. Va. In addition to teaching, I run an Anime Club, I’m the head Softball coach at the school and I’m the Marching Percussion Director at a high school that is close to my house.
Why do you want to teach:
I enjoy helping the students to gain a better understanding of the world around them. Science is on the decline and it is my responsibility to make sure that it becomes an art that is used in my students everyday life.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
When I was in 8th grade, I got to go on a field trip to a college through my science class. I love the demonstrations like putting thing in liquid Nitrogen. I knew then that I would one day work with/in science.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program allowed me to obtain a Masters in Teaching and get my credential together for licensure. There is no way that I could have obtained this on just federal aid. Entering the classroom with this experience better prepared me to handle the various roles that come with teaching.
