UTeach Student Ambassador Program
UTeach Student Ambassadors are some of the first faces prospective students see when learning about the UTeach Natural Sciences program!
The main mission of the program is to create welcoming, friendly, and informative events for Longhorns interested in learning how they can try out teaching with UTS 101, and ultimately gain a STEM teaching certification while obtaining their undergraduate degree at the University of Texas. Ambassadors also help maintain the close-knit, family-like environment that UTeach is known for by planning and facilitating events, socials, and networking opportunities for all UTeachers.
Continue reading below to get to know the current Ambassador team, and feel free to reach out to them for questions on the program, pre-service teaching, and student life in the UTeach program at ambassador@uteach.utexas.edu.
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Amara Ego, Class of 2025
Major: Physics
Certification Area: Composite Science
Fun Fact: Amara loves to crochet, knit, and make jewelry!
Why did you join UTeach:
"I originally joined UTeach to fulfill a requirement of being a full-time student, but I quickly fell in love with the program. I have a strong interest in education and wanted to be a part of a community that is focused on preparing aspiring teachers to have a positive impact on students. The practical approach of UTeach really spoke to me, and I am excited to be a part of the effort to improve STEM education."
Why should someone try out teaching with UTS 101:
"UTS 101 offers a unique opportunity to explore the field of teaching and gain hands-on experience in a classroom setting. By working with experienced teachers, you will gain a deeper understanding of both the challenges and rewards of teaching as you get the opportunity to teach your own lessons! Whether you are considering a career in education or simply want to make a positive impact in your community, UTS 101 is a fantastic way to acquire valuable skills and make a difference."
Hajoon Bae, Class of 2025
Major: Physics
Certification Area: Physics/Math
Fun Fact: Hajoon is always down to listen to new songs or artists that people recommend, so suggest away!
Why did you join UTeach?
I joined UTeach because I realized how fulfilling it is to teach someone something really useful and wanted to get better at it.
Why would you encourage someone to try out teaching with UTS 101?
UTS 101 - like all the UTeach classes - has great professors that help you learn skills that apply not only to teaching, but for life. Also, Step 1 is a great time to see if you actually like teaching and want to do it as a career because of those on-the-field experiences.
Jessica Villarreal, Class of 2024
Major: Neuroscience
Certification Area: Composite Science with Computer Science Pathway
Fun Fact: Jessica is a great multitasker! One of her favorite things to do is to listen to audiobooks while she's doing another task.
Why did you join UTeach?
Honestly, it was on a whim. The presentation peaked my interest and knowing that I will get field experience in the one-credit first semester was worth it!
Why would you encourage someone to try out teaching with UTS 101?
Teaching doesn't necessarily have to be your "Plan A" in order be a part of UTeach. The skills you gain in the first class you take are transferable to all careers!
Kyara Huichapa, Class of 2025
Major: Astronomy
Certification Area: Physics/Math
Fun Fact: Kyara went zip lining for the first time when she was five!
Why did you join UTeach?
I joined because I could immediately feel that the environment was incredibly welcoming and fun. I have always had a love of teaching and helping others, so I figured UTeach was a great place to start and try it out. I am also really passionate about helping the younger generation enjoy STEM!
Why would you encourage someone to try out teaching with UTS 101?
UTS 101 offers a valuable experience of hands-on teaching in the classroom. Through the process of lesson planning, instruction, and interaction with the students, you gain a lot of skills in teamwork, collaboration, organization, and implementing feedback; all of which can be applied regardless of your career path.
Kyle DuBose, Class of 2025
Major: Civil Engineering
Certification Area: Mathematics, Physical Science, and Engineering
Fun Fact: Kyle is a black belt in Tae Kwon Do!
Why did you join UTeach?
I started by joining UTeach on a whim. I was curious about the idea of teaching and had room in my schedule for the coursework. I figured that I could take the introductory class and decide from there if it was something I would be interested in continuing. Lo and behold, here I am now excited to go to every UTeach class I have.
Why would you encourage someone to try out teaching with UTS 101:
I think all of the classes offered by UTeach have something to offer everyone. Even if you are the slightest bit curious about going into education, I think you'll find the coursework very beneficial. In just my few semesters here, I have gained insights into the education system, effectively communicating technical concepts, and encouraging healthy mindsets. There are even ways to get more involved, from clubs like Math and Science Teachers of Tomorrow (MASTT) and UTeach Maker, there are many ways to explore the program and meet like-minded people. We are like a little family here on Painter's 4th floor and we're excited to see you join us!
Leah Bradley, Class of 2025
Major: Psychology
Certification Area: Life Science
Fun Fact: Leah absolutely loves Texas Volleyball! You can almost always count on her being the loudest in the student section.
Why did you join UTeach?
I felt like I owed it to my younger self. As a kid I was always playing teacher with my stuffed animals, so when I came to UT and I had an opening available, I chose UTeach despite not really knowing anything about it. It only took a single class for me to realize that this was not only where I belonged, but also a program that allows students to truly feel like they’ve made ‘OUR Texas, YOUR Texas.’
Why would you encourage someone to try out teaching with UTS 101?
UTS 101 is a great way to learn more about UTeach and discover the classroom environment. For me, this class invited me into the UTeach program and inspired me to continue throughout the rest of my college journey. Also, this class helps you gain hands-on teaching experience and insight about being a future teacher.
Want to Inspire Longhorns to Teach 'Em?
Applications open near the end of each fall and spring semester. Any UTeach student who has completed UTS 110 (Step 2) and carry a 2.5 GPA is eligible to apply.