Pedro Noguera - Teachers Make a Difference Martin Martel & Troy Duster

The speaker shares their journey as a first-generation college student at Brown University, where they met influential mentors like Marc Martel and Troy Duster. Marc Martel, a sociologist, played a crucial role in guiding the speaker towards a PhD and encouraging them to attend Berkeley. At Berkeley, the speaker met Troy Duster, who provided valuable advice during their activism and student leadership roles. Both mentors significantly impacted the speaker's academic and personal growth.

Who was Marc Martel and what role did he play in the speaker's education?

How did the speaker feel about being a first-generation college student at an Ivy League school?

Describe the influence of Troy Duster on the speaker's academic journey.

What were some of the challenges the speaker faced while studying at Berkeley?

What qualities did the speaker appreciate in their mentors?