Noyce Scholar Profile

Daniel Smith
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics, grades 9-12
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Noyce Scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
William Paterson University
Current academic or teaching status:
Post-baccalaureate
School and school district:
Certified substitute-Wayne, Riverdale
Background:
I have a B.A. in communications, and in my years off I worked a retail job. I enjoy math, so I decided to return to school to pursue a career in the field.
Why do you want to teach:
Many young students have the impression that math has no useful application, and they don’t need to take it. I want to reach these students with examples of math in everyday life.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
At the present time, nothing comes to mind, but as I progress through my courses and additional student teaching experiences, I am sure I will have many memorable moments.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program means two things to me. First, it is a reward for the effort that I put into my classes. But more, it is an opportunity and a motivator for me to give back to those who need it the most.