NMU education major Gwen Hoenke of Marquette recently completed an internship with Uncommon Charter Schools in Brooklyn, N.Y. She traveled there at the end of the school year to observe classes and teach small portions of lessons before helping to lead a three-week summer academy for middle school students struggling with mathematics.

“It’s been great,” said Hoenke, shortly before the academy ended. “When you’re in the field teaching you get so much more experience and gain a much better understanding of how the classroom works. Sitting in class and hearing the theory is important, too, but processing it is critical. NMU does a good job of getting teachers into the classroom and it’s been nice to have this extra time practicing after our semester ended.”

Hoenke has credited the support and encouragement of mathematics professors Dave Buhl in Mathematics and Computer Science and Judy Puncochar in Education [Professor] with helping her to secure the internship. The application required three letters of reference, university transcripts and a standard essay.

“I’m constantly amazed by the commitment our professors have to their students at NMU,” Hoenke said. “Every professor is good at being there to help when you need it and pushing you to meet challenges.”

The internship included a $3,500 stipend and room and board. Hoenke will begin her student teaching this winter and graduate in 2017.