By Lucy Peterson
As the school year turns to October, many members of the BHS community may have already had the opportunity to meet all the new teachers and staff at Branford High School. To help introduce the new staff to BHS, The Branford Buzz began featuring the new teachers last week. Over the coming days, The Buzz will be publishing Q & A interviews with all the new staff members.
Today’s feature is on Ms. Magdalena Fin, who is a photography and arts teacher.
Subject: Photography, Graphic Design, Computer Animation, Advanced Photography
Classroom location: C16
Why did you become a teacher?
I always loved art and throughout high school and college, I experienced how the arts had a power to bring people together and celebrate individuals as well as communities. I wanted to emulate artists and teachers I knew to create an environment where students could have similar experiences, while learning skills that would help them embrace their creativity and thrive outside of the classroom.
What is your background and how did you end up here at BHS?
I have a Bachelor of Science in Art education and a Master’s in Humanities with a minor in Visual Art and Media. I previously taught at Naugatuck High School and Beman Middle school in Middletown. My first few years of teaching took place at Maple Elementary in Naugatuck. I’ve taught all levels of students as well as adults, but high schoolers are my favorite by far!
What do you like about BHS?
I love the sense of community and how welcoming everyone has been. I also really appreciate the enthusiasm of my students. It makes me want to come to work every day!
Tell me about your family or your interests.
I am originally from Poland, so most of my family is overseas. My parents and brother live in Norwalk, and I graduated from McMahon High School. In my personal time, I continue my artistic practice, painting, teaching adults and doing commissions for clients.
What is a favorite book, song, movie, or TV show and why?
Growing up I was a huge Harry Potter nerd, and that never went away. Nowadays I love a good mystery novel. Last show I binge watched was Daisy Jones and the Six, because I generally really enjoy films/ shows about music and musicians. I also read the book and it was one of my favorites for a while.
