The technology department at UACHS has a new face Fatima Nieves. For her computers are not just about innovating they are also a source of creativity. Her love for computers led to her receiving her bachelor’s degree from NJCU in computer science and her master’s degree from Stevens Institute of Technology in information systems.
“I always had an interest in how computers worked and how they were connected,” said Nieves. “I was also interested in how they can help people in their day to day life.”
Her interest in computer science as well as her desire to share what she knows led her to start teaching. She wants to leave her mark on her students and show them what possibilities await them.
“ I want to make an impact in their lives,” said Nieves. “Planting the interest in them to become the future technology leaders really got my attention.”
In joining UACHS she wants to improve the school by giving students access to more technical resources. She wants to be able to have the latest tools in order to teach students.
“I wish students understood that computers are not only about coding and the hardware,” said Nieves. “Computers unlock potential and through them there are many innovations that students can create.”
With this being her first year at UACHS Nieves has met not only new students but has also met the faculty who she feels has been welcoming.
“So far so good, it’s my first year here and I like the environment,” said Nieves. “Everyone likes to help and cooperate so that’s really good.”
Entering a new school may be stressful and nerve racking but Nieves is striving to teach her students the beauty of computers.
“Right now there’s a lot of information to learn and even if it’s one thing at a time I’m just trying to get to as much as I can, but will just take one step at a time,” said Nieves.
Nieves hopes to instill a love for computers but also hopes that her classroom becomes a space for them to feel comfortable.
“I want to create an environment where they want to come in to learn; I want everyone to walk out with something even if it’s minor,” said Nieves. “I give them real life scenarios and examples so that they can connect more to what I’m teaching and hope that something clicks.”
