Ruth Luna, M.A. ’23, now a mathematics teacher at Ramona Convent Secondary School, has woven a unique path from a career in operations management to becoming a dedicated educator.
Luna’s journey reflects a profound commitment to teaching and an unwavering passion for mathematics, shaped by diverse experiences and a deep-seated desire to inspire young women in the field, in whom she sees flickers of herself.
After earning her degree at UCLA in Pure Mathematics (with a minor in Education Studies), Luna began her professional career as an operations manager at a nonprofit organization. This role, while rewarding, only partially fulfilled her career aspirations. Balancing her role at the nonprofit with one-on-one tutoring, Luna nurtured a long-standing dream of returning to academia.
By enrolling in the dynamic Master of Arts in Teaching Mathematics program at LMU, Luna was able to shape her teaching methods and educational philosophy.
“The experience was instrumental in refining my teaching techniques and deepening my understanding of mathematics,” Luna said. She praised Professor Anna Bargagliotti’s course on data science and Professor Patrick Shanahan’s classes on geometry and calculus as particularly influential. These courses not only enhanced her mathematical skills but also provided her with innovative approaches to engage students and foster their understanding.
One of Luna’s fondest memories from the LMU Frank R. Seaver College of Science and Engineering, home to the Teaching Mathematics program, was the hands-on data gathering project in Professor Bargagliotti’s class. “I loved the interactive nature of the assignments, especially when we analyzed data from photos of our living spaces. It was insightful and made learning fun,” she recalled.
Luna’s affection for mathematics extends beyond the classroom into her personal life, where her three cats—Delta, Epsilon (Epi), and the late Pi—are named after mathematical symbols. “Pi was with us for about 10 years, and he was a cherished part of our family. Delta and Epi, who are now one year old, keep us entertained with their playful antics,” Luna shared.
Her professional growth is also marked by active participation in national educational conferences. Luna has attended the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) conference and the Texas Instruments international conference (T3IC). These events have allowed her to explore new teaching technologies and methods, while also connecting with educators across the country. The California Mathematics Council (CMC) Conference has been another significant venue for Luna, providing her with opportunities to build local networks and exchange ideas with Southern California teachers.
As an educator, Luna’s goals are both expansive and focused. Her overarching aim is to instill a love for mathematics in her students, particularly young women. Growing up in East Los Angeles, she experienced firsthand the limited opportunities for students to engage deeply with math. “I want my students to appreciate math not just as a set of equations but as a tool for problem-solving and critical thinking,” she explains. On a more immediate level, Luna strives to continually improve her teaching methods, with current goals including enhancing curriculum pacing and utilizing more formative assessment techniques.
Teaching at Ramona Convent provides Luna with a unique and fulfilling experience. “The diverse student body here reminds me of my own background and allows me to connect with students on a personal level,” she said. Her own experiences as a student help her relate to her students’ challenges and aspirations, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Luna’s strong bonds with her colleagues at LMU have also been instrumental in her development. The camaraderie and shared experiences with fellow teachers have provided valuable support throughout her career. “Our connections from LMU have been incredibly supportive. We share resources, advice, and teaching strategies, which enriches our professional practice,” Luna said.
