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Student Spotlight: Hannah Clark ‘23 (Adolescence Education in Mathematics)
What drew you to Roberts?
The education program at Roberts is unlike any other! I was able to get into classrooms early on, which helped solidify that this is what I want to do with my life. Whenever I met with the math and education faculty, they were so helpful and saw me as a person rather than another number.
Lastly, Student Financial Services worked with me and my mom, answering tons of questions and made Roberts the most affordable option for me.
What’s your calling?
When I was in high school, there were lots of life situations that were really difficult for me to go through… but everyday my teachers were there for me, supporting me as a student and as a person too. They listened to me when I cried and celebrated with me when I had successes.
I wouldn’t be here today without my teachers so I knew that I wanted to be ‘that teacher’ for future high school students. And it just so happened that I love math and it’s my favorite subject, so naturally I’m becoming a high school math teacher!
How has studying at Roberts helped you grow in character?
Many of my classes have shown me more about myself and the world around me.
In my Honors Leadership Seminar, we explored our personalities and strengths, and these insights allowed me to better understand how I function – I’ve definitely seen the benefit!
Additionally, all of my classes have encouraged me to consider various perspectives which I believe has made me a more well-rounded person and more aware of others.
How has Roberts impacted your spiritual journey?
Having grown up in church my whole life, it was really interesting coming to Roberts because I met other Christians who had different beliefs and perspectives than I did. Through meaningful discussions with others and motivating chapels, I’ve come away with a greater understanding of my faith.
Additionally, in my math seminar class this spring, we were able to study mathematics through the eyes of faith and it enhanced my viewpoints on how God and math are intertwined.
What is the best thing about studying your major?
I’m kind of like a double major - Education and Math - so I get to be part of not one, but two amazing departments with great faculty and classmates!
I like having a variety of classes because one moment I’m writing lesson plans with activities for middle schoolers and the next I’m solving second order differential equations. It definitely helps balance the logical and creative sides of me.
What academic or professional accomplishments are you most proud of?
I’m currently working on a research project through the Honors Program investigating learning loss in math students due to COVID and best strategies for remediation, and it has been a rewarding experience that I’m proud of so far! I even submitted a proposal to a New York State Education Conference to potentially present in the fall, so I’m hoping I’ll be able to go and share my findings to the professional community.
Additionally, I have been a long-term sub for math since the beginning of June.
What are some ways you’re involved in campus life?
I participated in the All Student Juried Art Exhibition, submitting some of my photography works, and most recently, I was Martha in the Theatre Department’s production of “The Secret Garden”!
What is your favorite quote or verse and why?
My favorite verse is Lamentations 3:22-23, which says “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!”. This is my life verse because the Lord has always been faithful to me and I know He always will be!
Faculty Feedback
“Hannah loves the Lord and each day does her best to bring love and joy to those around her. She loves following her curiosity, is enthusiastic about math, and has a wonderful work ethic. My hope for Hannah is that she will be confident in the path the Lord leads her and that she will always remember how wildly capable she is. I know her future students will love being in her class.”
Karen J. Scheske, Assistant Professor of Mathematics
“Hannah truly is one-of-a-kind! She is self-motivated, determined, and continually striving to learn and grow. Yet she is also humble, friendly, and very approachable. She embraces new experiences and is willing to step outside her comfort zone; combined with her receptiveness to feedback and genuine desire to positively impact others' lives, I have no doubt that she will be an exceptional teacher that truly makes a difference in the world."
Emily E. Robinson, Undergraduate Program Director and Associate Professor of Education