Name: Nathan Novosel
UR Major: Financial Economics
Other UR Majors/Minors: Political Science
Additional Education: Currently taking classes towards my MEd at George Mason University
Current City, State of Residence: Washington, D.C.
Job Title: Third Grade Math and Science Teacher
Employer: Browne Education Campus
Community Activities: Currently the fourth and fifth grade basketball coach at BEC. I am also a volunteer for the Trevor Project Chapter in Washington, D.C.
How did you choose your major(s)?
I became politically engaged during my senior year of high school as the 2008 presidential campaign was picking up speed. I was fascinated by the political strategies of the election, but I was also intrigued by the complexity of the policies being discussed. I knew that economics and political science would help my understandings of both of these topics.
What activities were you involved in as a student and what did you gain from them?
I was a member and leader of several organizations. I was a co-captain of the varsity basketball team, the head captain of the St. Sebastian Society, an associate justice on the All-Campus Judicial Council, the vice president of the College Democrats, and a founding member and Professional Chairman of AKPsi Business Fraternity. Each of these roles allowed me to grow as an individual and as a leader.
Who were your mentors while you were on campus? Have you continued those relationships?
I was very blessed to have had several mentors in each facet of my college experience, but in particular stand out to me. In athletics, my head coach, Luke Flockerzi, taught me not only how to be a better basketball player, but a better man. My economics advisor, Michael Rizzo, pushed me to new heights in my academic thinking and became a very close friend. Both Flockerzi and Rizzo continue to be large mentors in my life.
What are some specific skills students should develop during an internship?
TIME MANAGEMENT. I can think of no better skill to develop in an internship than time management. If students can master time management before they are hired on the job, then those students will be significantly better prepared to transition into the work place than their peer counterparts who still struggle with using their time efficiently.
What do you do now and why did you choose this career? Where would you like to be in five years?
I am currently the third grade math and science teacher at Browne Education Campus in Washington D.C. I decided to join Teach for America late my senior year. I believe that having an impact in 36 8-year olds lives’ is one of the most meaningful impacts recent graduates can have. I also believe that spending several years teaching will better inform me of the successes occurring in our education system and the improvements must be made. I am unsure where I would like to be in five years.
