MAT Experiences: In Their Own Words
Video Testimonials
MAT Candidates recently took the time to share their experiences with the MAT Program. Click below to hear what our students think are the best parts of the MAT program, why they chose the MAT program, how the program is preparing and inspiring them, and more!
Class of 2023
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Alejandra Atilano
Multiple Subject, Bilingual |
Mackenzie Fahie
Multiple Subject |
Christina Han
Single Subject - English |
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Mia Page
Single Subject - Art |
Cindy Sandoval-Nava
Single Subject - Spanish |
Rollie Woodward
Single Subject - Social Science |
Alumni Testimonials
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UCI's MAT program equipped me with effective teaching strategies, deep content knowledge, and unwavering support throughout the credentialing process. In just 14 months, I was able to learn and accomplish so much while also building lasting connections. This program has undoubtedly prepared me for my career and beyond!
- Jamie Cinco '24 |
The UCI MAT program gave me the confidence to develop my own teaching identity by learning from many educators with diverse experiences and perspectives. The most valuable skill I gained was learning how to effectively teach students with a wide range of needs, especially English Language Learners. I would recommend the program to prospective students because of the strong support network—it truly is a community of professors, mentors, and peers that continues to support you even after graduation.
- Emily Cohen '24 |
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The greatest strengths of the UCI MAT program were the community and the multiple sources of support and feedback available. The shift from observing in the classroom to student teaching was made seamless with the support of the leadership of the program, the cohort system, our professors and mentors
- Ryan Garcia '24 |
The UCI MAT program gave me a strong foundation in learning theory and best teaching practices. It connected me with a community of thoughtful, passionate educators. The program is dynamic, supportive, and deeply focused on what’s best for students. I left feeling prepared, inspired, and never alone in this work. Zot! Zot! Zot!
- Marcus Jimenez '24 |
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I cannot recommend the UCI MAT program enough. It profoundly shaped my teaching approach as it emphasizes equity, student-centered learning, and essential values for educators. The program challenged me to reflect on effective teaching practices and what it truly means to be a good teacher.
- Alex Kim '24 |
One of the most impactful skills I gained from the MAT program was the ability to build strong, meaningful relationships with students. This foundation of trust allowed me to design more effective, responsive lessons that engaged learners and supported their growth—both academically and personally. Relationships made everything else in the classroom possible.
- Tina Thu Thao Nguyen '24 |
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The UCI MAT program equipped me with the tools and knowledge to give every student a meaningful opportunity to succeed. The collaborative cohort system and the practical, fast-paced schedule set me up well to jump right into my first year of teaching. The year-long student teaching placement sets the MAT program apart, and was so valuable because it gave me a full "practice year" to grow, build genuine connections, make mistakes, and build my confidence as a teacher.
- Azure Otani '24 |
The MAT program’s focus on equity and student-centered teaching molded me into the teacher I am today. Student relationships are at the forefront of my teaching, guiding every instructional decision I make and shaping a classroom environment where all students feel seen, heard, and valued.
- Jose Ramos '24 |
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The UCI MAT program gave me the tools to adapt and differentiate my teaching to meet the evolving needs of my students each year. The meaningful relationships I built with professors and fellow graduates continue to offer support, mentorship, and collaboration. UCI prepared me for success and real-world teaching.
- Isabella Rofsky '24 |
UCI's MAT program taught me more in one year than I thought was possible: it forced me to completely reconsider what it meant to be a great teacher and, just as importantly, was incredibly helpful in finding teaching positions for myself and other students.
- Javier Rodriguez '20 |
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UCI's MAT program empowered me to keep equity in the forefront of my mind through every aspect of teaching. With every decision I make in the classroom, I consider how I can serve each of my students in their best interest.
– Rachael Heinsen '20 |
The MAT program was foundational in helping me grow as both an educator and as a person. Its focus on social justice and the needs of all students has revolutionized the way I think about school.
– Reed R. Buck '20 |
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UCI's MAT program will train you to think critically about pedagogy and how to be pragmatic as you consider the students' growth as mathematicians, biologists, chemists, historians, journalists, and more.
– Serwoo Lim '20 |
Community
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