Teaching is not just about preparing students in a specific content area, but also about helping students recognize their own brilliance as thinkers and community members.”
Erin’s Story
Teaching Discipline
Biology
Why Biology
“I chose to teach biology because I love thinking about humans’ place in the larger ecosystem and considering the interconnected web of interactions and processes on Earth. My love for biology carries over to the classroom when I see students exploring and asking questions about the world around them.”
Professional Experience
Before becoming a teacher, Erin worked as a research assistant in a genetics lab. She has taught at various high schools throughout the Bay Area and served as department chair at San Lorenzo High School. She loves writing, and has worked on the editorial staff of Kaleidoscope in the past. In her current role at Berkeley High School, she is passionate not only about teaching science but also mentoring new teachers joining the profession.
Volunteer Experience
During college, Erin volunteered at a local juvenile detention center, where she held art workshops for their students. Currently, Erin blogs for the SADS foundation, which aims to raise awareness of genetic cardiomyopathies; she is passionate about supporting other survivors of heart disease and sudden cardiac arrest.
Hobbies
Erin enjoys pottery, reading, and exploring the great outdoors.
Academic Background
- Stanford University (Master of Arts in Education)
- Bard College (Bachelor of Arts in Biology)