Alia Minoletti excels both in the classroom and on the track. Minoletti is set to graduate in winter 2024 with a Master of Science degree in Secondary Education, First-time Licensure with an emphasis in Health Science and Physical Education. Minoletti has maintained a stellar 4.0 GPA while competing as a track and field athlete. Her journey reflects not only her ability to excel in multiple arenas but also her passion for promoting health and physical education in schools.
“Alia has been a standout in our program,” Elizabeth de los Santos, Ph.D., said. “Her ability to manage the rigors of athletics and academics, all while maintaining a focus on her goal of becoming an outstanding educator, is truly impressive.”
“I have had the pleasure of having her as a student several times in my courses, and I have found her contributions to class activities and discussions to be insightful and thoughtful. In class, she also shared her passion for physical fitness and the importance of physical health for promoting mental health and academic achievement.”
As one of the few graduate students specializing in physical education and health sciences in the College of Education & Human Development, Minoletti has brought unique insights to her coursework and practicum teaching. Her focus on the intersection of physical fitness, mental health and academic achievement has been a recurring theme throughout her studies.
Currently completing her student-teaching internship at McQueen High School, Minoletti has built strong connections with her students and mentors. de los Santos noted that Minoletti’s openness to feedback and ability to reflect on and adapt her teaching practices set her apart. “I am confident that Alia is the kind of caring, knowledgeable and dedicated teacher we want for all of our children,” de los Santos, said.
One mentor teacher was so impressed with Minoletti’s skills and dedication that they specifically requested her for the full-time internship.
“This internship has boosted my confidence in public speaking, lesson planning and navigating systems like Infinite Campus and Canvas,” Minoletti said. “It’s been an amazing experience, and I feel prepared and confident as I head into my first year of teaching. Every day brings new experiences and growth.”
For her comprehensive examination project, Minoletti conducted action research to address low engagement and motivation in large physical education classes. She increased engagement and strengthened her relationships with students by soliciting student input and tailoring her lessons accordingly. Her innovative approach demonstrated her commitment to creating supportive and inclusive learning environments, even in the face of challenges like teacher burnout.
Beyond the classroom, Minoletti hopes to continue inspiring young people as a coach for track or volleyball. Her dedication to fostering a lifelong appreciation for health and wellness is at the core of her teaching philosophy. Minoletti credits her time at the 性爱五色天, Reno, with preparing her to make a difference in her students’ lives. As Minoletti crosses the finish line of her graduate studies, her future as an educator and coach shines brightly—a perfect blend of academic excellence, athletic spirit and a passion for helping others thrive. Minoletti truly embodies The Wolf Pack Way.
As Minoletti reflects upon the last almost six years of college, from her time as a track athlete for Nevada to receiving her Master's degree and now becoming a teacher herself, the most significant piece of advice she received was that "Change is made of choices, and choices are made of character.
"Character cannot be developed if it's easy or quiet, so create the noise and take the chance. Only through failure, trial and experience can growth happen. Everyone you will ever meet knows something you may not know, so use what you do know to turn the mirrors into windows.
"Lastly, always remember what you do makes a difference, and at the end of the day, you have to be the one to decide what kind of difference you want to make."
