Why Mathematics at Florida Tech?

"The Florida Tech Math Department allowed me to develop the passion for Mathematical Education and Research that I have carried into my role as a Customer Success Engineer. Being a Student, Researcher, and GSA at Florida Tech provided me the opportunity to learn and grow as an individual and provided me with the tools and skills to be successful."

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, August 2020

M.S. in Applied Mathematics, May 2020

B.S. in Mathematical Sciences, May 2015

B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, May 2015

Current Employment

June 2021 - present: Customer Success Engineer, MathWorks

August 2020 - June 2021: Engineering Development Group, MathWorks

Why Mathematics at Florida Tech?

"To those who dream to be among the next generation of mathematicians, the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Florida Tech is the best place where your dreams come true. The Department has wonderful faculty members who will provide you with every bit of guidance, support, assistance, advice, and tremendous knowledge that you need during your significant journey. At Florida Tech, you don't just learn - you excel!"

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

M.S. & Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics, May 2019

Current Employment:

September 2019-present: Assistant Professor & Head, Department of Mathematical Sciences, College of Arts and Science, Al Baha University, Saudi Arabia

April 2019-present: Supervisor of Alumni Unit, College of Arts and Science, Al Baha University, Saudi Arabia

Why Department of Mathematical Sciences at Florida Tech?

"The Operations Research major at the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Florida Tech is one of the best academic places where you can meet your satisfaction. The Department has super knowledgeable faculty members who will guide, support, assist and advice you during your academic journey. At Florida Tech, you will achieve your dream!"

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

M.S. in Engineering Management, July 2008

Ph.D. in Operations Research, May 2017

Current Employment

May 2017-present: Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Engineering, College of Computer and Information Technology, Taif University, Saudi Arabia

Why Education at Florida Tech?

“Through most of my doctorate, I received Graduate Student Assistantships as a chemistry lab instructor. These allowed me to teach and apply my expertise toward improving the lab curriculum as well as mentor my peers. Florida Tech also provided a diverse number of extracurricular activities and organizations that helped with distractions from academic work and making friends. From an unforgettable study abroad trip to Peru to co-founding a club (Interdisciplinary Students Research Association) with my advisor’s help to being a member of the FIT Bowling Club, I did it all. I will undoubtedly cherish great memories from my years at Florida Tech.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in STEM Education, May 2020

Current Employment

Academic year 2020 - 2021: Assistant Professor of Middle Grades, Secondary, and Science Education at the University of North Georgia

August 2014 – December 2019: General Chemistry 1101 Lab Instructor and Teaching Assistant Mentor

Why Education at Florida Tech?

“My passion has been in the field of science and I have chosen a career in teaching. That led me to pursue and earn a bachelor’s degree in Physics Education and looking for a unique program with a depth of quality for my graduate studies in the field of Science Education. Florida Tech was my choice because it offers an opportunity with a stellar learning environment, diverse community and, of course brilliant minds who would give me an excellent opportunity to achieve the highest level possible in my field of learning; the field of science education.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Science Education, July 2019

M.S. in Science Education, May 2015

Current Employment: 

2019- Present: Assistant Professor of Science Education, Dept. of Curriculum and Educational Technology, Taif University, Saudi Arabia

Why Education at Florida Tech?

“In 2012, I came to Florida Tech to get a Master’s degree in computer education. Later, after I got to know Florida Tech more and met with Dr. Marcinkowski during one of the courses, I decided to continue pursuing my Ph.D at Florida Tech. Florida Tech has a Ph.D program in STEM Education that required students to study several majors and get a solid educational background. During my Ph.D program, I had the opportunity to study more advanced courses in my undergraduate major, computer science, and earned a second Master's degree on it. At the same time, the program, through the coursework, comprehensive exam, and the dissertation work, helped me to build a strong background in educational theories, research methodologies, and statistical analysis strategies. The Ph.D program in STEM Education at Florida Tech prepares graduates to be professional in research and in teaching at the university level.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D., STEM Education, December 2019

M.S., Computer Information Systems, May 2018

M.S., Computer Education, December 2013

Current Employment

2020 – present: Head of Scientific Research Center, College of Education, Jeddah University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

2019 – present: Assistant Professor, Department of Curriculum and Teaching, Jeddah University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Why Education at Florida Tech?

“At the time, Florida Tech was one of two institutions in the state of Florida that offered a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education. I needed the flexibility to take classes and keep my full-time job. While my choice was practical, it was the one of the best decisions I made. The faculty was so dedicated to student success, I felt like I had my own cheerleading squad. The support services for graduate students were abundant and excellent. Everyone I encountered made me feel like family. Thank you Florida Tech!”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Mathematics Education, May 2019

Current Employment

August 2006 – present: Assistant Professor, Broward College North Campus, Coconut Creek, Florida

Why Education at Florida Tech?

“For everyone who has ambition to complete his/her graduate studies the field of STEM Education, the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Florida Tech is the best and perfect place to achieve your aim, because the Department includes highly qualified faculty with distinguished experience. I am absolutely sure that you will benefit greatly from their guidance, advice and continued support to reach your desired goal and dream that you seeks to achieve ... start out from Florida Tech to achieve your ambition.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Mathematics Education, December 2019

M.S. in Mathematics Education, Mary 2017

Current Employment

January 2020 – present: Assistant Professor, Department of Curriculum and Teaching Methods, College of Education, Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Saudi Arabia

May 2015 – December 2019: Lecturer, Department of Curriculum and Teaching Methods, College of Education, Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Saudi Arabia

Why Education at Florida Tech?

“The program was a unique opportunity to take a deep dive into my personal and professional interests: education, research, and psychology. Faculty members, like Drs. Marcinkowski and Park, truly go above and beyond to ensure you excel in the classroom and in conducting research.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Science Education, May 2018

Current Employment

June 2011 – present: Director of Advising Operations and First Year Experience, Florida Institute of Technology

Why Education at Florida Tech? 

“As a U.S. AID Fulbright scholar, choosing Florida Tech, specifically, the Department of Education and Interdisciplinary Science, for my PhD program was one of the most important decisions of my life. The faculty here not only provide you the best opportunity to learn, practice, and prepare yourself for the global need of qualified educators who will inspire tomorrow’s leaders and decision makers, but also support you in getting a great career after the completion of your study.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech 

Ph.D. in Science Education. Major Technical Area: Physics, December 2017

M.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering, December 2017

Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Science Education, May 2016    

Current Employment: 

2017 – Feb. 2020: Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Karakorum International University Gilgit, Pakistan

2014 – present: Member, American Association of Physics Teachers

2018 – present:  Member, Fulbright Alumni Association

Why Education at Florida Tech? 

“Because it is a wonderful, unique, supportive place filled with brilliant, interesting and, yes, fun people. I don't think many other universities can offer the sense of international campus community that the Florida Tech fosters, or support their students with as much research resources and advice. On a personal note, I deeply appreciate Dr. Marcinkowski’s dedication towards his students and unconditional support that greatly motivated me to become a better researcher.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Science Education, August 2017

Current Employment

September, 2019 – Present: Director Resource Development, Aga Khan University, Pakistan

Why Education at Florida Tech? 

“I choose the Science Education doctoral degree at FIT due to both the rigor and caliber of the program.  After meeting with Dr. Marcinkowski, I knew that the program was right for me because of the challenge that it presented but also the support provided by the faculty and staff.  The opportunity to work alongside the prominent department members during my time at FIT was an irreplaceable experience that has prepared me for my professional career with the ultimate goal of excellence in all matters.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Science Education, May 2015

Current Employment

2017 – Present: Professor of Biology, Palm Bay Campus, Eastern Florida State College. Courses taught include General Biology, Fundamentals of Biology, Anatomy and Physiology I, Anatomy and Physiology II, Oceanography, Zoology, Introduction to Environmental Science, and Subject Area Reading.  Worked with Dr. Holly McKnight to developed an Educator Preparator Institute program and Science Education B.A. in Science at EFSC. 

2015 – 2017: Chemistry, Biology and Marine Science Teacher, Viera High School.

Why Education at Florida Tech? 

“I moved to Melbourne in 1995 and fell in love with the campus at Florida Tech.  Years later, after earning a Master’s degree in Education and 18 graduate hours in Biology, I was looking for a way to merge my passions: education and biology.  I came to Florida Tech to pick up a graduate catalog for my sister in 2009 and saw the Ph.D. program in Science Education.  It was a perfect fit. This Ph.D. Program was one of the most challenging and rewarding educational experiences of my life.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Science Education, May 2015

Current Employment

2010 - present: Professor of Education and Biology/Online Department Chair, Palm Bay Campus, Eastern Florida State College. Teach Biology and Education courses. Online Department Chair for Biological Sciences, Computer Science, Dental, Education, Health Science, and Veterinary Sciences.

2010 - present: Program Manager, Collegewide Education. Wrote BS Degree in Science Education. Wrote Educator Preparation Institute (EPI) program for students seeking teaching certification. Wrote Educational Technology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree, and Educational Assisting College Credit Certificate (CCC).  Work with program students.

Why Education at Florida Tech? 

“Florida Tech supports a community of talented scientists and science educators who guided me to gain extensive insight into the complex world of educational research. As an international student, I value the diversity on campus and multicultural activities that help cure my homesick. The place I missed most is the Joy & Gordon Patterson Botanical Garden where I walked in with “test anxiety” and “dissertation pain,” but out with peace and inspiration. Above all, I deeply appreciate Dr. Marcinkowski’s dedication and commitment to environmental education that greatly motivated me to become a better environmental educator and researcher.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Science Education, December 2015

Current Employment

March 2018 – present: Shanghai Baoshan Center for Environmental and Science Education, Shanghai, P.R. China.

Why Education at Florida Tech? 

"As an adult working full-time who wanted to complete my dream of earning my Doctorate degree, the Ph.D. Program in Mathematics Education at Florida Tech was the ideal solution for me. The rigorous classwork and research led me to study beyond my degree to help students with their math and test anxiety. My TEDx talk and private practice has grown to assist students worldwide to gain their dreams – just like Florida Tech allowed me to gain mine. Thank you, Florida Tech – for the opportunity, for the encouraging professors, for the rigor, and the convenience."

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Mathematics Education, December 2011

Current Employment

January 2005 – present: Program Director, Indian River State College, Vero Beach, Florida

August 2014 – present: Professional Speaker, NallEdge Co., Vero Beach, FL

Why Education at Florida Tech? 

“My initial interest in Florida Tech was spurred after hearing Dr. Marcinkowski speak at a conference and learning he was a scuba diver with experience in coral reef education programs. I finally pulled the trigger when I learned the FIT Science Education doctoral program had an option for a technical concentration in oceanography. As a student I was pleased to find my rather unusual dissertation was enthusiastically supported by not only Dr. Marsinkowski but a wonderful faculty who broadened by horizons and supported me at every step along the way.”

Degree(s) Awarded at Florida Tech

Ph.D. in Science Education (Oceanography), December 2000

Current Employment

2019-present: Founder and Principal, Ocean Education International, LLC (a sustainable tourism consultancy and publisher of marine educational materials)

2009 – 2018: Professor of Marine Science & Technology, College of the Florida Keys, Key West, Florida. Developed and taught courses in general oceanography and marine biology; coral reef ecology, conservation, management and restoration; sustainable marine tourism; and underwater research methodology.