TEACHER FEATURE

What brought you to WYWLA? 

My favorite brand of math is statistics and this job had statistics in the title. After talking with Mrs. Walker, I appreciated the specific goal of the school. Unlike other public schools, my job at WYWLA has a specific value beyond getting students credit. For most, I am an auxiliary math service for students trying to get as many college credits as possible and I love filling that role.

What is your impression of WYWLA thus far?  

I realize the hard work and passion the students bring to the classroom. They want to do well and they want to impress their peers and teachers. I’ve yet to find easier students to work with.

What is one piece of advice you try to inculcate in students? 

Be intentional with your time and actions.

Where did you grow up?  What were you like as a kid? A young student? Favorite subject growing up?  Hobbies?

I grew up in Raleigh. As a kid I played a lot of video games and that tendency was detrimental as a young student. 

I was not a great young student and an even worse older student. I failed out of University of North Carolina-Wilmington after squeaking by out of high school and that experience has made me an even better teacher. I have the rare quality as a teacher to know what it feels like to be drowning at school. Some of my Math 4 students this year were on their second attempt at the class and I know the stress they were under because I failed Calculus 1 the first time. As long as you can try again, failing is not insurmountable.

Favorite subject growing up?

It was and is math because most of the time you’re either right or wrong. English was my worst (even though I can speak it!)  I still don’t know how to analyze a poem!

What hobbies do you have?

My hobbies are still playing video games. My most played game is “League of Legends”.  Last time I checked, about 7,000 hours.  I’m diamond in that game and even though that means nothing to anyone, it took me 12 years so I’m gonna' mention that!   I’ve started rock climbing because I’m approaching 30 and that’s what you’re supposed to do.

What is one fun fact about you?  

I haven’t had a smartphone in over a year.

Where did you graduate from college?  What was your major?

I have a storied college experience and it’s not over. So far I graduated from Wake Tech (Associate of Arts) and University of North Carolina - Charlotte (Bachelors in Math).  I'm currently attending North Carolina State University (Master of Science in Statistics) .

How long have you been in education?  Where did you work prior to WYWLA?

I've taught for three years.  I’ve previously taught at East Wake High School and Pine Springs Prep.

What music do you listen to on the way to work?  On the ride home?  What type of music do you listen to/prefer?  Favorite artists/ bands?  Favorite songs?

I am my father’s son, I listen to a lot of rock. The Strokes, The Killers, U2, and  some rap as well.  My favorite artist: The Strokes.  Favorite song: Murals - Lupe Fiasco

Are you a cold weather person or a warm weather one? What is your dream vacation?

I am a cold weather person but this January is testing me. Cold > warm because you can always add more layers.

There are so many places I want to see, currently Wolverhampton, Seoul, Casablanca, and Salzburg, Austria.