Student Spotlight: Meet Maria Kannebecker
Current Program: M.Ed. in Secondary Education (Anticipated Graduation: Fall 2026) |
From Engineering Design to the Math Classroom
When Maria Kannebecker first arrived at Lehigh, her eyes were set on engineering and design. However, it didn't take long for her to realize that her real calling was in the classroom. Today, she is in her last semester of graduate study at Lehigh’s College of Education (COE), combining her love for mathematics with a mission to make the subject feel accessible to everyone.
Kannebecker values the structure of the Lehigh's 4+1 M.Ed. program, which allowed her to build a rich content background in mathematics as an undergraduate before stepping into advanced education coursework.
"Having a strong background in mathematics as a result of my bachelor's degree has helped me feel more confident and capable to answer students' 'why' questions, especially in advanced math courses. I'm very passionate about mathematics education, especially figuring out how to make higher-level mathematics less intimidating for students!"
-Maria Kannebecker
Life on and Around Campus
Outside of her graduate studies, Maria stays active both on campus and in the local community. A member of the Mustard and Cheese Drama Society, her background in theater and music remains a huge part of her life alongside hobbies like knitting, crocheting, and cooking.
When it's time to unwind, Maria and her friends take advantage of what the area has to offer:
Ice Skating: Taking advantage of public skate times at the nearby Steel Ice Center.
Local Eats & Games: Exploring new restaurants across the Lehigh Valley and tackling local escape rooms.
Arts & Culture: Attending live theatrical performances whenever possible.
Looking Ahead
After completing her M.Ed. in Secondary Education, Maria plans to teach mathematics at the middle or high school level. She also hopes to merge her love for STEM and the arts by running an after-school theater program for her future students.
Reflecting on her journey so far, Maria shares a heartfelt thank you to her parents and family for their unwavering support, as well as the wonderful faculty members in both Lehigh's Mathematics Department and the College of Education who helped guide her to her true passion.
