Noyce Scholar Profile

Alyna Raynovich
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Middle School Education
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Math and Science, grades 6-9
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
Towson University
Current academic or teaching status:
Senior
School and school district:
Baltimore, Maryland
Background:
I grew up in a small town where everyone knows everyone and wanted to branch out from my roots. I’ve had many opportunities to travel inside and outside of the United States, and the experiences that I have gained through these journeys are just fuel to the fire of all that I have to offer children through teaching. Moving to Towson University has been one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences of my life.
Why do you want to teach:
I know many people who will probably live their whole lives without every leaving the county where I grew up. It’s important to me to give students the opportunity to explore outside of their comfort zone and what they know. I feel that teaching is a great way to get this message across.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
A memorable experience was when I had the opportunity (and there are many) to mentor middle school age students (especially girls) who are dealing with bullying. This is a memorable experience for me because I was bullied in middle school to a very extreme point. I want to branch out and help children understand what the entire world has to offer. If I can help make the world a better place by giving children a much needed ego boost at the same time, there is no way that I can turn that down.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
I was just recently selected to the Noyce Program so I am learning about all of the advantages. I am so grateful for the opportunity. This program relieves a great burden of financial problems for my family, and I am so thankful to have the chance to continue to work with children as I continue my education career.