Gabriana Rosario is mathematics fellow at Emma Willard School, joining our faculty this fall. The Fellows program at Emma Willard School partners with Clarkson Graduate School so that the candidate receives a Master’s of Arts in Teaching degree from Clarkson University’s Capital Region campus. We asked Gabriana four questions about her role at Emma Willard
#1—What brought you to Emma Willard School?
In college, I worked as a peer math tutor, similar to EW’s PRIMES, and I really enjoyed helping my peers succeed in their math classes and providing them support. I wanted to continue that journey of helping others with math so I looked into and applied to work at independent schools in the northeast. When I interviewed at Emma Willard, it was May Day, and everyone warned me about the traditions here, but when I went outside and saw the whole school gathered together, so happy and supportive of each other, I knew this was a special place.
#2—What is a typical day-in-the-life at Emma like for you?
As a fellow, I only teach two classes. That leaves my day pretty open but I spend a lot of that time planning lessons and preparing for class. Some days I’ll have meetings with other teachers, or club meetings for HOSA and MedTalks. I like to get lunch pretty early, before the rush of students, and I’m so grateful that I’m always welcome to join any table with a seat. When I don’t have class or meetings in the last block, I usually leave school early to go to my own classes at Clarkson University, where I am getting my Masters in Teacher. Balancing both teaching and taking classes keeps me busy, but it forces me to make sure I am on top of all my work. On some nights and weekends, you can find me on dorm duty in Alumnae House, probably on our super comfy alcove couch.
Gabriana (far left) with other new faculty this year: Giselle Lora, Emma Eddy, Chelsie Tuttle, Shannon Bailey, Hope Wiley, Maggie Curtin, Cecilia Caro (from left to right).
#3—What is one thing about working at Emma that would surprise people?
Things are always changing. Even though this school has such an old history, it is not stuck in its old ways. The admin team, faculty, staff, and different committees are always working to improve so many aspects of what life is like at Emma. For teaching, there’s always new research and techniques for how to teach something more effectively, so it is part of my job to stay up to date with any new information. Even though I was in high school less than 10 years ago, it wouldn’t make sense anymore for me to teach the way that I was taught because the world has changed so much since then.
#4—What is your favorite space, place, or tradition on the Emma campus?
My favorite space on campus is the library. It is such a comfortable and vibrant environment. I feel like I look like a student going to the library to do my work but there’s so much productive energy in the room. I love all the comfy spots to sit and do work or read a book. The collection of books the library has is also great, and I always have in mind the next book I am going to check out.
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