TeacherTalks With Kurtz
Welcome to “Teacher Talks” with Mr. Kurtz
As an award-winning (and now retired) high school science teacher with 35 years in public education, I've had the pleasure (or maybe the challenge!) of teaching over 3500 students the wonders of biology and science research.
But here's the twist – I've always wondered: where did all those students end up? And more importantly, did I have any impact on their lives?
Join me on a journey of discovery as I embark on the ultimate teacher challenge: tracking down my former students, who called me Kurtz, to uncover how their earlier education, including my own, influenced the trajectory of their lives. In each episode, I sit down with some of my former pupils, some of whom I haven't spoken to in 30 years, to get the answers we've all been waiting for.
But wait, there's more! "Teacher Talks" isn't just about satisfying my curiosity – it's also a resource for educators, parents, and current students alike. Together, we'll explore career choices and the myriad paths that lead young people to their life and career destinations.
So, whether you're a seasoned educator, a curious parent, or just someone wondering where your high school classmates ended up, tune in to "Teacher Talks" for a journey through education, nostalgia, and the unpredictable twists of life's journey.
Mr. Kurtz is inviting you to listen in.
TeacherTalks With Kurtz
Episode 2.2: From Commack to Columbia – Mehtaab’s Journey in Mathematics
In this episode of TeacherTalks with Kurtz, Mehtaab reflects on his educational journey through the Commack School District and how his high school experiences, interactions with fellow students, and early collaborations shaped his path to success. After graduating from Commack High School in 2014, he pursued undergraduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania and MIT. Mehtaab went on to earn his PhD from MIT and is now an assistant professor at Columbia University. He also holds the prestigious title of Clay Mathematics Institute Fellow, a recognition awarded to researchers with significant achievements and the potential to lead in mathematics. Join us as Mehtaab shares how his early experiences and academic partnerships have fueled his outstanding accomplishments.