Noyce Scholar Profile
Lydia Valencia
Undergraduate major or graduate field of study: Mathematics
Subject area(s) and grade level teaching focus: Mathematics, grade 7
Category of scholarship/fellowship:
Fifth year or post-baccalaureate Noyce scholar
Name of Noyce institution:
University of La Verne
Current academic or teaching status:
First year teacher
School and school district:
Ruth O. Harris Middle School
Background:
I am a first generation Mexican American. My parents were born in Mexico and came to the United States after the age of 13 years old. Both received less than a 7th grade education. I was the second in my family to graduate from a university.
Why do you want to teach:
I teach because I believe that all students can learn mathematics and pursue careers in mathematics if they are given the opportunity to do so. I like to interact with students, motivate them to do well in school and teach math.
Describe a memorable teaching experience:
So far my most memorable experiences are the interactions that I have with students. I have had positive experiences especially with my Beginning English Learners. I see that they are motivated to learn math. It’s a rewarding experience to see the influence that I can have on them.
What does the Noyce program mean to you:
The Noyce program has helped me better position myself financially so that I could excel academically. As a result, I am now able to help students by teaching them mathematics and influencing their educational decisions.
