Noyce Scholar Profile
Anne Marie Russell
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics with Secondary Certification
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics, Grades 8-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of Texas at Arlington
Current academic or teaching status:
Junior
School and school district:
Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD, Arlington ISD, Mansfield ISD
Background:
I am Colombian-American and grew up and still live in Dallas, TX. I graduated from Life High School in Dallas in 2010 as valedictorian of my senior class. At University of Texas Arlington (UTA), I am in UTeach Arlington, which is a math and science teacher preparation program. I am also in the Honors College and am currently doing research on visualization. I work on campus as a Supplemental Instruction Leader for Pre-calculus and Calculus. I am involved with the Mathematical Association of America, Association of Women in Mathematics, and M&Ms Teach (UTeach student organization). I am also really involved in my church; I lead worship and help with Sunday school. Other than my studies and church, I love spending time with my family and my dogs.
Why do you want to teach:
I have always loved working with people and helping others. It wasn’t until my senior year in high school that I figured out that I wanted to be a teacher. This came after tutoring and helping people who would then comment, “I like the way you explain things; when you explain it, it makes it so much easier!” Math has always been the subject I was best at, so when I heard about the UTeach program at UTA, I decided to become a math major and a teacher. I want to teach to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I also want to change the way people think of math and help more people understand it.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
One day during an SI session (group tutoring), I had all the students go to the board and work out examples. As they were working out the problem, they began to understand the concept. One student said, “This is the only place where I am actually learning!” This stands out in my mind and reminds me why I enjoy what I do and what a great job I do.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
It has been a privilege and an honor to be in the Noyce program. I have enjoyed the opportunities, resources, and networking that I have received. The scholarship has not only been a financial help but also a motivational support to continue pursing my career. I like the support and mentoring they offer once we get into the teaching field.
