Tell us why you became a teacher

In my previous career as a military policeman, I found fulfillment in the training and mentoring of young Airmen more than any other aspect of my duties. I was aware the skills and lessons I taught them would save lives when they inevitably deployed to war. I would swell with pride when my subordinates succeeded in their endeavors. I knew what I was doing truly mattered. When I left the military, I needed to continue on this path and teaching was the obvious choice.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I created a lesson on Shays' Rebellion. I recruited two students to act as "rebels." One would randomly begin complaining about my teaching and would start arguing. The second would get up, state their agreement and join the argument. Everything was going wonderfully until another student, not part of the lesson, jumped up yelling "I'm a rebellious spirit! I'm with you!" I had an actual rebellion which, thankfully, was easily quelled and exceptionally demonstrated how rebellions start.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would pay down debt and fund my continuing education.