Future Educator Debora Diaz ’26 Puts Her Desire to Teach into Action at Iona University
A desire to help young lives led Debora Diaz ’26 to a dual major in Iona University’s 4+1 Math and Adolescent Education program.
“I wanted to attend a university that was going to set me up for success post-graduation,” said Diaz, vice president of Iona’s Education Club. “With such an outstanding dual-degree program, I am going to start my dream career as soon as I graduate.”
This January, Diaz also began putting her desire to teach into action with an internship at Salesian High School in New Rochelle as part of Iona’s National Science Foundation (NSF) Noyce INSTRUCT Program. The Noyce internship aligns with Diaz’s post-graduation goals.
“I first want to start as a high school math teacher, while pursuing a doctorate in mathematics to eventually become a professor,” said Diaz. “What interests me the most about my career is helping the lives of young people.”
We talked recently with Debora about her Iona journey. Please enjoy or visit the Education Department to learn more about how Iona can support your dreams of becoming a teacher!
Name: Debora Diaz
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: 4+1 Math and Adolescent Education
Hometown: Bronx, N.Y.
High School: Nuasin Next Generation Charter School
Clubs: Honors Mentor of the Honors Program, Peer Mentor of Gael Success, Vice President of Education Club, Treasurer/Community Service Chair of Black Student Union, Commuter Assistant, Senator of the Student Government Association, Gael Guide
Favorite Spot: Honors Lounge
Why did you decide to attend Iona?
I decided to attend Iona for many reasons. My first and main reason is the well-structured Education Department. I wanted to attend a university that was going to set me up for success post-graduation. With such an outstanding dual-degree program (4+1 program), I am going to start my dream career as soon as I graduate. My second reason being that Iona is close to home. I can commute on the Metro-North every day as many times as possible and still be home with my family.
What interests you most about your chosen course of study?
What interests me the most about my career is helping the lives of young people. Growing up with many siblings, I see how impactful teachers can be in everyone's life. Having amazing and horrible teaching has taught so much about how a classroom operates. I recognize how I can impact my future students inside and outside the classroom.
What types of roles are you looking to pursue in the future?
I want to pursue many roles in the future. I first want to start as a high school math teacher, while pursuing a doctorate in mathematics and eventually become a professor. Later in life, I hope to open my own school.