Program helps preservice teachers gain experience

Dr. Max Vazquez Dominguez, associate professor of science education, led the Summer Scholars STEM Institute. He said the less rigid format of the monthlong program, held Mondays through Thursdays, allowed preservice teachers the flexibility to learn as they led students.

The Summer Scholars STEM Institute was funded by support from the United Way of Hall County, Jackson EMC, Rotary of Gainesville, and the National Science Foundation.

Araseli Gonzalez, a senior from Gainesville, Georgia, pursuing a degree in middle grades education, was grateful to figure out more about her future profession. She and fellow preservice teacher Cole Turner were able to thrive by meshing their different styles in their classroom.

"It gave me a new perspective on co-teaching and being able to work well with others," Gonzalez said.

She enjoyed seeing the students share their science and engineering projects with their parents on the final day of Summer Scholars STEM Institute.

Gonzalez previously earned an associate degree at Lanier Technical College and then worked for seven years before coming to UNG to pursue a career in education. She is hoping her presence in a classroom will encourage other Hispanic students to realize they can become teachers.

"I want to show students they can do it, and I believe in them," Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez will spend her senior year as a student teacher at East Hall Middle School. One of her other inspirations for entering the teaching field was John Hardison, her English teacher at East Hall High School. She hopes to make a similar impression on her students.

"I love shaping minds, seeing kids as a whole person and any way I can help guide them," Gonzalez said.