Noyce Scholar Profile
Lanae Pierson
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Entomology
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Natural Sciences, grades 6-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Current academic or teaching status:
Post-Baccalaureate Student (Master's level)
School and school district:
Lincoln Southwest High School, Lincoln Public Schools
Background:
I love insects! I received my bachelor’s degree in insect science and a master’s degree in entomology. Because of this, I feel I have a unique perspective on the world and on other scientific fields. I like that my experiences doing research give me a good background for actually teaching science.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to help students learn how to think critically about the world around them. I also want them to be able to learn how to write well.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
I did an activity about perceived risk which had students rank activities that they considered risky. A wonderful discussion followed in which all students participated. It really got them thinking about why we consider certain activities risky compared to others.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has enabled me to go back to school without having to worry about my financial situation. It really took a burden off my back. Now that I know what I want to do (teach), the Noyce program is helping me reach that goal.
