Current Scholars
Gianna Fazzini
Gianna Fazzini lives in West Caldwell, NJ where she is studying to be a math teacher, aiming to work in the middle school setting and wanting to change the way kids learn about math. Gianna has worked as a camp counselor and a STEM teacher within her summer camp. When Gianna isn’t doing her school work, she enjoys staying active by going to the gym, playing softball and going on walks with her family where she is ultimately training for her second half-marathon.
Amber Hammond
Amber Hammond resides in Hackensack, New Jersey. Big on inclusivity and creating meaningful connections, she hopes to alter the negative stigma surrounding mathematics and learning. In her free time, Amber enjoys spending time with family and adventurous outings with friends.
Tania Lopez
My name is Tania Lopez. I’m pursuing a mathematics major with dual certification in teaching grades K-6 and students with disabilities. As a Newark resident, my goal is to provide all students with the opportunity to get a meaningful and engaging education that aims for growth. In doing so, I hope to show that math is so much more than shapes and equations. In my free time I enjoy doing arts and crafts, organizing my house, and taking trips with my family to see and learn about the world around us.
Arnold Rosas
Arnold Rosas lives in Passaic, NJ, and is working towards a degree in mathematics and a certification for teaching K-6. Arnold plans on teaching elementary schools first and from there work his way up to high school. When Arnold isn’t in class or conducting research he enjoys the company of his large family and does activities with them, mostly visiting public parks.
Hunter Smith
Hello, my name is Hunter Smith, I live in Woodland Park, New Jersey. I want to teach students that if they make a mistake not to be afraid because that’s how they get a better understanding of the topic. Math is meant to be about growth and understanding, not memorizing theorems or formulas. As a hobby I learn sign language so that I can communicate with people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Graduated Scholars
Caitlin Lobosco
Caitlin Lobosco recently graduated with a bachelors degree in Mathematics and K-6 teaching certification. She is teaching 4th grade at Ola Edwards Community School in Hillside, NJ. She likes to garden, play with her labradoodle Lea, and also likes to watch movies.
Maritess Tapia
Maritess Tapia lives in Passaic, New Jersey. Inspired by her educators growing up, she received her Bachelors in Mathematics with a concentration in Elementary (K-6) Teaching. She always envisioned herself teaching math to younger children but through experience discovered a greater love for teaching upper elementary grades. Currently, Maritess works as a 6th grade mathematics teacher in her hometown of Passaic. As an educator, Maritess always advises her students to never compare themselves to others, not to belittle themselves, and to always persevere. In the future, Maritess aspires to continue her journey by focusing on Bilingual Education to better assist the large population of English Language Learners throughout her classes.
Maria Taute
Maria Taute lives in Old Bridge, New Jersey. She aims to change students’ views about mathematics and build a stronger foundation for their skills. She enjoys playing field hockey and working as a STEM Coordinator at the Connection in the summer. She is currently teaching 6th grade Math at Hawkins Street School in the Newark, NJ, school district.
Fiorella Vecco
Fiorella Vecco resides in Lyndhurst, New Jersey and is working as a 6th Math/Science Teacher in the Union City School District. Although she has been virtually teaching virtually since March, she still continues to enjoy teaching and providing the best assistance needed for her students. When in the classroom, she was a big advocate for collaborative learning and is currently trying to implement this into virtual learning. Her favorite aspect of teaching is being able to connect on a personal level with her students and find different creative outlets to engage them while learning in class. When not teaching, Fiorella enjoys hiking and spending time with her family and friends. She is excited to see what her future holds next in the educational field!
Lizzie Visbeen
Lizzie Visbeen resides in North Haledon, New Jersey. She is currently working at Abington Avenue School in Newark, NJ. This is her second year teaching 7th grade Mathematics. She feels passionate about creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for all students. At Abington, Lizzie enjoys building relationships with each one of her students, and also loves collaborating with other teachers to improve her practice. When she is not teaching, she enjoys cooking and baking for her friends and family. Lizzie also loves to be active by hiking and going to the gym.