Alexandra Maucione ’24, secondary education and mathematics, knew exactly what she wanted to be when she grew up, a high school math teacher. URI not only gave her the resources to achieve her dream, but offered unexpected connections in her academic departments that lead to extensive campus involvement. Next up is graduate school in her home state to earn her masters in education. Her one piece of advice? Say “yes” more often.
Why did you choose URI and what did you enjoy about the math program?
I choose to attend URI because of the beautiful campus, proximity to the beach, and the opportunities of involvement. I always wanted to be involved in my school whether that was through Greek life, becoming a TA, or just participating in the events hosted by the school. Additionally, URI has great programs that help me achieve my dream of becoming a high school mathematics teacher. I was a part of the school of education and the math program here at URI. I enjoyed how seamlessly the two programs were able to overlap and help me make connections between the two different content areas. My professors in both programs were so memorable, supportive, and shaped me into the teacher I am today.
What is something special about the math program here at URI that you enjoyed?
In my specific situation, I enjoyed how the math program opened my eyes to other opportunities involving mathematics. For example, a lot of my math classes overlapped with engineering students. I was able to learn mathematics and visualize it in a real world context like engineering as opposed to just thinking about how I might teach this in a classroom. Relating the mathematics to real world context was very beneficial for me because it helped me assign a purpose to the content being taught. I was able to apply my math knowledge, interact with new people, and experience other perspectives by being in classes with students with a different major.
What are your post-graduate plans?
After graduation, I plan to move back to New York and become a first year teacher. I am graduating with a degree in secondary education mathematics with an extension of a middle school certification. I will be applying for jobs at both levels, but after all of my practicum placements and student teaching experiences, I prefer to teach at the high school level. Additionally, I will be attending graduate school back in New York to achieve my masters in education. I will be receiving my masters degree in one of the following concentrations: special education, English Language Learners, or Technology and Learning. I am passionate about exploring ways to differentiate instruction so that it appeals to all diverse learners, whether that is in regards to special education, ELL, or just students with different learning styles.
What is your favorite memory from URI?
One of my favorite memories at URI is my last day of student teaching. I learned and grew so much from my student teaching experience. The last day of student teaching really made it clear the relationship I built with my students and the impact teachers truly do have on their students. This really was a touching moment for me and made it clear that I want to continue to shape the minds of young learners. Saying goodbye to all my students was a very bitter sweet moment. Although it was sad to say goodbye, it sparked my motivation and excitement for the future.
What is something that you would tell your freshman year self?
If I could give my freshman year self one piece of advice, it would be to be very open minded to new opportunities and try to say yes to as many things as possible. These four years of college truly flew by and it is so important to savor every single moment you have here. The university is full of new people, opportunities, and organizations. Take advantage of the opportunities in front of you and enjoy every little bit of it. I am so grateful for my experience here at URI and I am so
sad to say goodbye to this chapter of my life.