Her Story
About Jennifer
Jennifer Guzel has been teaching mathematics since 1975, starting her career in Liberia after being inspired by her mother, who was a math major and teacher. As an educator, she has taught a wide range of students from first graders to adults, including secondary math, GED preparation at Clatsop Community College, and tutoring. She has worked in after-school programs and developed enrichment activities focused on historical math systems like Egyptian hieroglyphics and Babylonian base 60 to make learning engaging. Guzel received the Cal State Northridge pre-college teacher award and the Clatsop Community College Inspiring Learning Award in 2019. She advises aspiring educators to share their passion, set clear goals for students, balance time effectively, and approach teaching with zest, enthusiasm, and inner joy. While noting challenges like burnout from dealing with administration, parents, and colleagues, she highlights the satisfaction that comes from connecting with students.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jennifer
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Share your passion. Have a goal for what you want your kids to do. Balance your time. Come in with zest and enthusiasm, emitting an inner joy that you enjoy them and enjoy math. The kids will pick up on it.
02What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Burnout from dealing with administration, parents, kids, colleagues. It's challenging but you can have a lot of satisfaction if you connect with students and have fun.
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