TeacherTalks With Kurtz

In this episode, Austin reflects on his high school journey, where he first honed the skills that would shape his future career. After graduating from Commack high school in 2016, he went on to study at the University of Michigan, where he became an industrial operating engineer. Now, he's a key player in his company using his optimistic personality and engineering skills to help his organization thrive. Austin shares invaluable insights and advice for young people considering a career in engineering. Don’t miss Austin’s story and many practical tips! Lets listen in to teacher talks now

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.

Matthew was an exceptional and driven high school student who discovered his passion for computer programming with the support of mentors at Commack High School. During his time there, he developed a lifesaving program designed to help pharmacists dispense medication in high-pressure environments such as natural disaster zones and war-torn areas. This innovative project sparked his ambition to become a video game developer.
After graduating in 2015, Matthew alternated between degree coursework at Stanford University and internships in Silicon Valley. Over the years, he worked with several prominent gaming companies, honing his skills and contributing to innovative projects. Along the way, he and a friend created an indie game titled NoStranger that garnered over a million views. Matthew has worked in the industry on games such as Fortnite, Call of Duty and Warzone. 
This episode is a must-listen for anyone aspiring to a career in game development or computer engineering. Tune in to hear Matthew share his unique journey, insights, and valuable advice about both the positive and negative aspects of becoming a video game developer. Let’s listen in now.

In this episode of TeacherTalks with Kurtz we join Raphael, a former student of mine at Southside High School in Rockville Centre, who graduated in 2003. Raphael's passion for climate change policy and local solutions has taken him on international journeys and internships, where he developed a deep understanding of the environmental challenges people face daily.

Today, Raphael lives in a small town in British Columbia, where he faces the harsh realities of climate change head-on. From severe droughts impacting his community to crafting worst-case environmental models, he plays a pivotal role in helping local leaders adapt and prepare for the future.

Join us as we explore Raphael's inspiring journey—how he identifies challenges, fosters solutions, and champions resilience in the face of one of humanity's greatest crises

Philip graduated from Southside High School in 2004. We connected right away, like me, he hailed from Canada, and we shared a deep love for biology and nature. Throughout high school, Philip slowly got over his shyness and got involved in school life. His path was shaped by a series of fortuitous events and a steadfast determination to combine his love for the outdoors with his career. Today, he proudly serves as a forest research officer with the Canadian Forest Service in New Brunswick, living his dream.

When Kerry graduated from South Side High School in 2004, her future was uncertain. Through her passion for science, the guidance of mentors, and a love for teaching, she charted a path to becoming a university professor and researcher. In this episode of Teacher Talks, Kerry offers practical advice for young people, emphasizing that failure isn’t a setback but a crucial part of discovering who you are and what you can achieve. Tune in to learn how her work in environmental engineering and human health is shaping future researchers and making a real-world impact!

Melissa, a 2007 graduate of Southside High School in Rockville Centre, now thrives as a staff scientist at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Colorado. Back in high school, she had little idea of what it took to become a scientist and found herself struggling with chemistry—a cornerstone of her current career. Melissa’s journey is a compelling testament to the power of perseverance and the drive to turn dreams into reality, proving that determination can turn even the most challenging obstacles into steppingstones for success.

I reconnected with David, a former student who graduated from Huntington High School graduate in 1998 and after university became an award-winning science teacher. We reminisce about the surprise encounter at an education event where I discovered his unexpected career path, given that most of my students don't pursue teaching. David, who is a creative and intelligent educator, shares his valuable advice and wisdom. Tune in as we chat during his vacation in the USA from his current teaching role at an internation school in Singapore, catching up on his experiences and insights.

"Hey everyone! In this episode of Teacher Talks with Kurtz, I chat with Gabe about his incredible journey—from high school research to studying neuroscience on a Fulbright in France, and now pursuing his MD/PhD at Stony Brook University. Tune in to hear how he navigated his path and gain insights for your own academic and career journey. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon. Don't miss it!"

From the moment Amy stepped into my high school classroom, her joy and intelligence were immediately evident. With unwavering determination and a clear vision of becoming a medical professional, she dedicated herself to her studies from an early age. Through relentless hard work and a laser-focused mindset, Amy achieved her dream. Today, she proudly serves as an orthopedic physician assistant (PA) and, embodying the passion and commitment that defined her educational journey.