A Commitment to Mathematics Education and Research

Jenna Trusnovec, Beta Zeta Scholarship Recipient

While working full time as a high school math teacher, Jenna is also pursuing a PhD in Curriculum & Instruction at UAlbany. She shares how her scholarship is supporting her path toward a career in higher education and education research.

What is one thing you love best about UAlbany?

I love that while I live on Long Island and am a fully online student at UAlbany, my professors are always readily accessible and willing to answer any questions that I have. Class discussions are always rich and intentional, even while virtual. UAlbany is making my educational goals more attainable while being flexible with my schedule.

How will this scholarship help you achieve your goals after graduating from UAlbany?

This scholarship will help me achieve my goals after graduating, as I am pursuing my PhD while working full-time as a high school math teacher and an adjunct mathematics professor. Attaining my PhD will give me the option to work as a full-time professor or gain the skills needed to continue in mathematics education research.

What is one more thing you would like scholarship donors to know about you?

I am working as a full-time high school math teacher on Long Island. This year, I am teaching Algebra, Geometry, and Pre-Calculus. I am also teaching Pre-Calculus at St. Joseph’s University. I am just 25 years old and am working hard to create a career for myself. Your scholarship has enabled me to enroll in more courses despite my busy schedule, and I genuinely appreciate it.

Thank you so much for establishing the Beta Zeta Scholarship and for supporting women who are educators. It is a true honor to be selected. Your generosity encourages my commitment to teaching and truly strengthens my dedication to making a positive impact in my high school math classroom. I am grateful for the support as I continue my journey throughout the PhD program.