Noyce Scholar Profile
Genadio Pulido
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics, grades 9-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of La Verne
Current academic or teaching status:
5th year/Credentials
School and school district:
None
Background:
I am a first generation Mexican American. I graduated from the University of La Verne with a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics, Cum Laude. I am the first in my family to graduate from a university. Both my parents are from Mexico. My mother has a high school education; my father has two years of college education, but was not able to complete his degree. I enjoy playing the violin and am currently a member of a mariachi band.
Why do you want to teach:
I want to teach to be able to make a difference in a child’s life. I enjoy helping others and love the rewarding feeling that comes when a student I help understands what I have explained. I also was inspired by my high school Algebra II and Calculus teacher to pursue a career in teaching. I want to recreate the same experience I had for my students and even make it better.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
I had an opportunity to teach a geometry class last year while working as a tutor at a high school. During the school day, I helped the teachers with the students who needed extra help in math. One of the classes that I was a tutor for was a geometry class. The teacher left on maternity leave and had a long term substitute hired to teach the rest of the year. I volunteered to help him teach, and he gave me a class period for the rest of the year. It was tough, but I enjoyed having the opportunity to be able to teach. It has reinforced my desire to become a teacher.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has provided the opportunity to continue pursuing my dream to become a high school math teacher. After receiving a bachelor’s degree, it is usually difficult to find financial aid to continue your education. The support from the Noyce program has allowed me to continue my education. In addition, I like the Noyce program workshops which provide us with helpful tools that we may use as teachers. It is comforting to know that there are programs like this one that offer students opportunities and help to continue pursuing their dreams.
