By Sara Nelson

Happy “Where Do You Work?” Wednesday! This week meet alumna Abby Noelck (BA ’13 Spanish with a minor in Linguistics, and certification in Secondary Education and Foreign Language Education).

Noelck is entering her third year of teaching Spanish at West Branch High School in West Branch, Iowa. Noelck also works as the Student Government Advisor.

“I love that I have the autonomy and support from my district to try new things in the classroom. I absolutely adore my students, and they are constantly surprising me and making me laugh and think every day,” says Noelck.

Noelck is grateful to her mentor, Melissa Fitzgerald, and the many professors that helped her on her journey.

“The College of Education helped me complete my student teaching in Minnetonka, Minnesota, which was the best experience. I also had some fabulous foreign language and education professors who made me think about my teaching and philosophy long-term, instead of just the details of lesson planning,” says Noelck. “I would have never been employed had it not been for my wonderful mentor, Melissa Fitzgerald, who gave me constant support and career advice.”

Want to be the next “Where Do You Work Wednesday?” or nominate someone? Message us on Facebook, tag them with #HawkeyeTeachers, or email us at educationatiowa@uiowa.edu.