Major: Math for Secondary School Teachers

Class Standing: Senior

SMI has allowed me to find a community of fellow future teachers and has helped me find a clear path to a teaching career.  I have met others who had similar struggles, which has allowed me to feel seen and able to seek advice.

On my free day, I love to sleep with my dogs and delay the day to relax.  I tend to read a book or watch anime (One Piece) in bed.  I also like to drive to relax, so I'll take the time to drive to different stores to enjoy that driving time.

The one fictional character that I identify with is Usopp because he is a character who is filled with anxiety and, at times, insecure.  Despite this, he is on a journey to become a brave and powerful person.  Throughout college, I feel I have been on the same journey of dealing with anxiety and leaving my comfort zone.

Major: Chemistry

Class Standing: Senior

One of the most valuable skills I gained from SMI is the ability to confidently work in a team environment.  SMI greatly improved my ability to support others and to work with others on projects more efficiently. 

When I have an absolutely free day.  I would sleep for a longer period of time as I have nothing to worry about.  I would also use it to spend time with my family or friends if they are free as well as I always enjoy spending time with others I know. 

I enjoy working out, hanging out, and eating out with friends.  I really enjoy spending time with others as with the right people it often enriches my experiences.

Major: MTSS (actively pursuing to change to Physics)

Class Standing: Sophomore

SMI has really helped me develop my organization of time.  It does have a good amount of work behind the scenes that must be taken into account when studying or keeping up with hobbies, but it really pays off because it's great working with your peers and developing a connection with your mentees.  Not to mention, our lovely director, Ms. Leslie Bushong, is also very encouraging in scheduling our priorities which really is a skill that takes some trial and error and even some practice to get into a routine that really works for you.

I enjoy playing volleyball, going to the gym, and listening to podcasts/music.  I spend a lot of time at the SRC going to the open gym for volleyball, playing with my intramural team, or lifting weights.  I also always have music playing and sometimes I listen to podcasts about science, philosophy, psychology, and more.

I'd say my friends and family would describe me as authentic.  I am usually a straightforward person because I strive to be true to myself and to those around me.

Major: Math for Secondary School Teachers

Class Standing: Senior

The most valuable skill SMI helped me develop is my level of comfortability in the classroom.  I have historically been nervous while presenting in front of people.  SMI provided me with the opportunity to pursue fieldwork and through that, my confidence in the classroom has drastically improved.

Music is a huge passion of mine and I love spending my free time on it.  On a free day, I would usually practice my drums or have practice with the band.

A song I would say describes me is Crave by Paramore!  The song is very special to me because it's all about appreciating where you are and the growth you've had.

Major: Math for Secondary School Teachers

Class Standing: Sophomore

SMI helped me find people who wanted to be part of the same career pathways as me.  Additionally, they all have the same passion to learn and educate others.  I found people who I can call my friends and rely on.  

on my free day, I try to catch up with my friends and extended family on what they have been up to.  Additionally, I will either try to learn a new dance choreography or do some art to destress.  

I think the song that best describes me is "Maze in a Mirror" - Tomorrow by Together.  This song is about self-discovery and finding yourself when you feel like you don't know yourself.  I relate to this song a lot and being in SMI has helped me on my journey to find myself.

Major: Math for Secondary School Teachers

Class Standing: Senior

Before SMI, I was a lone drifter, simply doing my assignments for my classes and never being able to meet other people in my major or make any connections.  However, through SMI, I have been able to have the opportunity to reach out to others and make lifelong connections and friendships.  

Some activities I enjoy are playing video games (Mario Kart/Smash) and gardening.  As for gardening, I am still a novice but am grateful to be able to grow some lettuce, carrots, tomatoes, and tomatillos, etc.

A music genre that I believe comes close to describing my character is Lo-Fi.  Lo-fi can be nice and calming to relax and chill: I too believe that those qualities resonate with me.

Major: Math for Secondary School Teachers

Class Standing: Junior

SMI provides me with a space where similar students share the same goals as me.  Starting my 1st year, I didn't know anyone else who aspired to be a math teacher, but now I am grateful to know a group of students who do.  

Some activities I enjoy are tennis, cooking, baking, and gaming.

I would say Stitch is most similar to me because he cares for and tries to protect those he loves. 

Major: Math for Secondary School Teachers

Class Standing: Junior

SMI has helped me connect with my peers with similar goals and interest as me!  I have met a wonderful group of people that continue to inspire me to do my best for the remaining time I am here.

I really enjoy hiking, going on nature walks.  Another activity I have been into for a while is film photography!  My favorite pastime would have to be trying new food spots with my friends.

A song I'd say I identify with is fairly new but I believe represents me well.  it's called, "My Love Mine All Mine," by Mitski!

Major: Math for Secondary School Teachers

Class Standing: Senior

SMI has made me feel like I belong here on campus because I am able to meet so many dear friends from this program who allow me to be myself.  Not only that but it allowed me to gain insight on what it takes to become a teacher. 

Some of my most likable personality traits would be being thoughtful and random.  I am always considerate of my friends/colleagues and always make sure they are feeling great or that their ideas are being heard.  Random since I dislike strawberries yet still get a strawberry acai (with no strawberries).

Some activities I enjoy doing are dancing Ballet Folklorico and crochet.  I enjoy dancing and I do it at any opportunity that I have.  I love to crochet blankets since it has the easiest patterns.

Major: Physics

Class Standing: Senior

SMI has made me feel like I am part of the community by providing a space where I can connect with other like minded people who want to become teachers.  Most STEM majors want to go into industry and I just wanted to teach, so being around SMI peers has given me the community I've needed on campus.

Some of the activities I enjoy are gaming, camping, and working on chores around my house.  it always seems like there isn't enough time for any of it but I try my best to work it all in.

One word that I hope family and friends describe me by would be determined.  Those closest to me understand the dedication I have to things once I get started.