Abigail Almanza
Abigail Almanza plans on utilizing her skills in math and technology to teach students in a low income district. When she isn’t studying, Abigail likes to draw, work out, and cuddle with her dog.
Get to know Abigail
- Major/minor: Elementary education, learning technologies
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: East Dubuque, Illinois
- Career goal: To become a math teacher in a low income school district
- Clubs/activities: 2019 Human Sciences Week Co-Chair, Honors Program
- Awards/honors/scholarships: Blanche Miller – FCS, Iowa State University Grant, Lyle and Ruth Cook Endowed Scholarship, Dr. Dennis Thomas and Mrs. Marcy Dee Thomas Scholarship, Durwin and Margorie Hanson Scholarship, Student Sensation 2019-2020, Dean’s list
- Favorite place on campus: Center for Technology in Learning and Teaching in Lagomarcino Hall
- Most influential ISU mentors: Denise Crawford, Jennifer Stover
- Favorite class: Math 195/196, Mathematics for Elementary Education I/II
- Why Iowa State: Credited education program, opportunities for hands-on learning right away
Abigail Almanza unites interests in math and technology to prepare for future career
Abigail Almanza has always had a knack for math and a drive for teaching. When it came to choosing her major, Abigail knew elementary education with an emphasis on mathematics was the right route for her, especially after finding out she’d be able to work hands-on in the lab school starting her freshman year.
“I have dedicated myself to becoming a teacher that will be there for students in times of need and even in times of achievement,” she said. “I want to be a stepping stone in all of my future students’ success.”
Along with her elementary education major, she has committed to minoring in learning technologies, due to her interest in putting emphasis on technology use in the classroom setting. Using the two disciplines to build onto each other, Abigail is creating her own unique experience within the School of Education. She is interested in implementing technology into her future classroom, and helping other teachers implement technology into theirs.
“Integrating these [different technologies] into your classroom shows your students that you’re interested in what they’re interested in,” Abigail said.
Using both areas of her studies, Abigail gains real-life experience by interning at Gilbert Intermediate School. There, she helps with any tech issues the students or teachers may have with their laptops or projectors. She also aids teachers in the classroom when they need extra assistance. Performing a variety of tasks around the school, Abigail has been able to gain an abundance of exposure.
“I love the experiences that I get to have throughout the school,” she said. “It has been a great way to learn how to become a teacher.”
Though she keeps busy, Abigail has found that the most important thing to do while in college is to make time for yourself, while also making an effort to become involved on campus.
“Your happiness and health is the most important thing, but also, get out there and make an effort to be a part of the university,” Abigail said. “Make experiences, and enjoy these four years.”
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