Noyce Scholar Profile
Alejandro Perez
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Algebra I and Algebra II
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Teaching Fellow
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Texas at Arlington
Current academic or teaching status:
Second year teacher
School and school district:
Cedar Hill Collegiate High School, Cedar Hill ISD
Background:
I am a first-generation Mexican-American; my parents were both born in Mexico and immigrated to this country to seek better opportunities. Their sacrifice has benefited me in countless ways, and through hard work I was able to become the first person in my immediate family to obtain a college degree.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to teach in order to serve the community that has done so much for me. I am able to help them, and they do the same for me.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
During my first year teaching, I was at a very “rough” school. This was all so unfamiliar to me, and I had a difficult time connecting to students. Although much of my efforts seemed in vain, I very much appreciated when, at the end of the school year, a certain student apologized to me and explained how he grew to appreciate the work I was doing for him and for the class.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has meant “opportunity.” Through this program I was given the opportunity to complete my undergraduate career without worrying about how I would manage financially. I was given the opportunity to travel and attend professional development opportunities that, otherwise, I would not be able to afford. Overall, I have been given the opportunity to grow as an educator.
