Shruti Ramesh is an AP Statistics and Geometry teacher and a sponsor of Math National Honor Society at Freedom High School. In her ninth year of teaching, she has taught AP Statistics every year of her career. For her, math is more than just a subject full of formulas and equations.
“In high school, I tutored other students in elementary and middle school, and I really enjoyed working with them and exploring different ways to explain things,” Ramesh said. “Whenever they had that ‘oh’ or ‘ah ha’ moment [it] felt very rewarding.”
Her interest in how people learn grew even more in college, where she majored in cognitive science. The subject gave her a deeper understanding of how the brain works and how that knowledge connects to education.
“I love the science of learning and how it relates to teaching and education,” Ramesh said. “I really enjoy looking at how the brain works.”
During college, Ramesh also met one of her most influential mentors, a professor who emphasized the importance of balance. The lessons she learned then continue to affect her life today.
“Yes, academics and school work is important, but so is taking care of myself, hanging out with my friends, and giving back to my community,” Ramesh said. “I try to keep work at work as much as possible and schedule time that is dedicated to spending time with myself through reading, or drinking tea, or something for myself.”
Outside of academics, Ramesh enjoys reading, especially fiction.
“[My favorite book is] The Book Thief,” Ramesh said. “I loved that it’s about the importance of reading and stories and how stories can bring people together.”
Although she once considered pursuing research, Ramesh found her passion in the classroom. She not only teaches but also builds connections with her students. She shares an experience that her students may be surprised to learn.
“My students would never guess that I was in show choir in middle school,” Ramesh said. “I enjoyed the friends I made.”
Looking ahead, Ramesh shares her goal for the year.
“[My goal is] to be able to plan more engaging and hands-on activities for my geometry lessons,” Ramesh said.
Ramesh plans to continue balancing teaching, time for herself, friends, and community.
