Robert Noyce Scholarship Program

Meet Noyce Scholar Melissa Kagele

Name: Melissa Kagele

Grew up in: Odessa, WA

Currently Pursuing: Masters of Arts in Teaching / ARC program

Certifications: Mathematics

Level of teaching: High School

Tell us a bit about your decision to pursue a career in math education? Prior to my decision to go into education, I was working as an engineer. While I enjoyed that field, I realized I wanted to be interacting with others and sharing my experiences with students. Now I get to inspire others to go into STEM fields!

Why Seattle Pacific University? SPU's Alternate Route to Certification program was perfect because of its year-long internship. I've heard a lot of students in education programs lamenting that they did not have more time in the classroom. Ther ARC program is allowing me the opportunity to apply what I'm learning in my SPU courses in the classroom on a daily basis.

What has been your greatest challenge this past year? Motivating student to recognize the potential for real-world applications of math, and to have fun in the classroom.

What are you most excited to be offering to your students? I'm excited to help my students see the connection between math and their life outside the classroom, as well as connections to their culture and interests.

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

I'm looking forward to taking everything I have learned through the ARC program and as an intern and using it in my first year of teaching!

Anything you would say to someone considering applying for a Noyce scholarship? If you're going into Math/Science education, I can't imagine why you wouldn't want the benefits of the Noyce program - connections to resources, mentors and financial assistance for your degree are opportunities you shouldn't pass up!