Robert Noyce Scholarship Program

Current Scholars Archive

Meet Noyce Scholar Kelsey Partridge

Name: Kelsey Partridge

Grew up in: Auburn, WA

Currently Pursuing: Bachelor of Arts & Science in Mathematics with teaching certification.

Pursuing Certification in: Secondary Mathematics

Intended level of teaching: I started college convinced I wanted to teach high school level mathematics. After spending more time in middle schools, observing and helping, I have realized that I LOVE the middle schoolers! Thus, I hope to be teaching middle school mathematics.

What teacher or professor has been most influential in your life? 

My high school teachers, as a collective whole, have been most influential in my life. I was blessed with a group of teachers who genuinely cared about my success as a student and encouraged me throughout my time in school.  As a result, I became inspired to “pay it forward.” I have developed a heart for students and their struggles and wish to be an encourager in their respective academic journeys. 

Tell us a bit about your decision to pursue a career in math education?

There is more pressure than ever on students to excel in subjects like mathematics and science. I believe a student under pressure in school can begin to develop a negative self-image if they are constantly struggling in these subjects. My choice to pursue math stems from a goal to reverse these common negative ideas if one is struggling in math the one is “stupid” or “will never understand it.”

Why Seattle Pacific University?

My faith has played a central role in my decision to attend Seattle Pacific University. As a Christian, seeking Christ in all aspects of my life is extremely important and I knew that in the long run it would be well worth the money to pursue my calling as a teacher at Seattle Pacific University.

What has been your greatest challenge this past year?

Course work has easily been my greatest challenge over the past year. Upper division math courses, for me, have been difficult, tedious and, more often than not, confusing. I feel there are not many teachers who truly understand the struggles of their students in math classes. My hope is that I will be able to offer up this understanding to them.  

What are you most excited to be offering to your students?

My experiences at SPU have led me to develop a pedagogy centered around mathematical exploration. There are connections to mathematics all around us and I hope to be able to spark an interest in my students by letting them explore these connections. It is through these connections that I have an excitement for the subject and my hope is that my students can learn to get excited about mathematics too.

Any experiences are you currently looking forward to in this coming year?

Hands down, I am most excited about completing my B.A. in Mathematics.

Anything you would say to someone considering applying for a Noyce scholarship?

 Apply apply! The Noyce program here at SPU is working to build a community for all Noyce scholars. There will be fun opportunities for professional development and the staff members are great resources too!