My ambition is that students walk out of my class with a sense of agency, thoughtfulness, and potential to lead. We need leaders who measure success in terms of kindness, awe, and reciprocal relationships with others and the world around us. I hope to inspire students to be the change they wish to see in the world.”
Amanda’s Story
Teaching Discipline
Physics
Why Physics
“Physics captured my imagination in high school. That class built a stronger science identity for me. Because of the great experience my high school teacher facilitated for me, I pursued it as an undergraduate degree. I realized what I loved about physics was the challenge and the sense of wonder I felt studying it. It turns out, I love the challenge and fun of teaching physics even more.”
Professional Experience
Amanda was the first in her family to graduate high school, and has had a circuitous path to teaching high school. While she did astrophysics research through her university and summer internships, she also fell in love with teaching through tutoring and working for the planetarium. After college she decided to teach astronomy to elementary school students at a hands-on science camp at AstroCamp in Idyllwild, California. She continued working in informal education as the STEM Director at the Greater Salt Lake Boys & Girls Clubs. To increase her impact and relationships with students, she decided to go into teaching.
Amanda has been teaching physics at the Salt Lake Center for Science Education in Salt Lake City, Utah, since 2022.
Hobbies
Amanda enjoys running and sees it as a grounding force within her life—one that has been a big part of her routine since high school. Additionally, Amanda loves an outdoor adventure, reading, and spending time with her husband, dog, and loved ones.
Academic Background
- Webster State University (Bachelor of Science in Physics)