April 2024

Dr. Amber E. Smith has enjoyed teaching for the NCSSM Online program since Fall 2023. She is currently teaching the Honors Foundations of Data Science course. At NCSSM-Durham, she is teaching Calculus Ia/Ib, having taught Precalculus, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, and Foundations of Data Science previously. This year, Dr. Smith also has the pleasure of teaching Calculus BC with the NCSSM Connect program. Dr. Smith joined the NCSSM-Durham faculty in 2018, returning to the same institution that was instrumental in her desire to become a mathematics instructor many years ago.

Was there any particular teacher (at any time in your school career) who was particularly influential, and why?

My second-grade teacher, Mrs. Shelia Simpson, was one of the most influential teachers I had during my academic career. She was the first teacher I had that encouraged me to challenge myself and she believed in my potential. I was a very quiet student and often overlooked because I was too shy to speak up in class. Mrs. Simpson understood this and helped me discover ways I could still participate in class and share my ideas with others. I am still in contact with Mrs. Simpson, and I try to visit her each time I go back to Pasquotank County.

Any tips or words of advice for Online students?
My advice to NCSSM Online students is to make sure they communicate with their instructor regularly. If they need help with an assignment or want to review concepts they have learned, email the instructor and set up a time to chat, if possible. Communication goes a long way in helping make sure they are successful in the course.

What are some of your interests beyond teaching, mathematics, and data science?

My interest beyond teaching, mathematics, and data science is music!! I love all things related to music. From trying to learn how to play the guitar, to simply relaxing while listening to some of my favorite tunes. I can appreciate all genres of music, but have a love for R&B/neo-soul (in particular music from the ’70s, ’90s, and early 2000s) and classic rock.