This month's Alumni Spotlight features Yan Wang, a multi-talented teacher at Glen Ridge High School in Glen Ridge, New Jersey. Yan began her teaching career as a Chinese language instructor and recently made a successful transition into teaching math through NJCTL's Mathematics Add-On Endorsement and Master's Degree Program.

Yan's academic background is strongly rooted in science--she holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in microbiology, with a focus on molecular biology. She worked for Mount Sinai Medical School and Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceutical R&D as a researcher before leaving the lab to prioritize her family. "I used to commute to work 112 miles a day to Pennsylvania. After four years, it was too much," she recalls. "We moved to Glen Ridge so my husband could be closer to his work in New York City, and it was then that I started my own Chinese tutoring business."

Over time, Yan became more involved in the school district's Chinese program, earning her certification in Chinese teaching. She began working part-time as a Chinese teacher and gradually took on more responsibilities. At one point she was asked to help cover three chemistry classes when the regular teacher left midyear. I coordinated with NJCTL during that time, and that's when I first learned about their programs."

When her younger son went off to college she decided she wanted to teach full-time. Her principal suggested she pursue math. "I decided to give it a try, and I'm glad I did!"

Though math wasn't her original field, Yan found that it quickly clicked. "I didn't know how much I liked math until I started teaching it. I like that it's precise and logical--and it's fun!"

Yan completed the mathematics endorsement program in a year and a half. "It was a very rigorous program--comparable in rigor to my other academic experiences. I did biology in graduate school, and I can say NJCTL's program is just as serious. I appreciated that everything was so well-structured. One course builds on the next and it has really helped me build my skills."

One of the most impactful parts of the program for Yan was the Teaching Methods course. "This course helped me so much--not just in math, but in my Chinese classes too," she said. "I was already doing some group work, but the Methods course helped me do it more purposefully. I became more observant, more reflective. Now I better understand how students interact and it has really improved my teaching."

Yan also appreciated the program's flexibility. "Everything is asynchronous, so it fits perfectly with my full-time teaching schedule," she says. "The platform is well-organized, the materials are clear, and the instructors are so helpful and respond to questions quickly. It was a very warm and friendly environment and I felt supported the entire time."

Having lived in Glen Ridge since 2010, Yan appreciates the community she serves. It's a small town--less than 8,000 people--but very welcoming," she says. "Families really prioritize education and the kids are generally kind and motivated. It's a great environment."

From microbiology research to the high school classroom, Yan's story is anything but typical and we are excited to see where her teaching takes her next!