Chris Marshall

Tell us why you became a teacher

My mom was an executive director for a school for kids with special needs. Growing up I got to see the impact teaching can have on families. Families were always thanking my mom for the things her school did for their children and I always admired that. I think that probably influenced my decision to want to be in a job that had an ability to have a positive impact in the world. Teaching offers you that opportunity everyday, even if it’s just being a positive person in someone’s life.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

In 2014 I was lucky enough to be awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to teach English as a second language in Thailand. When I first received the news I told my mom that I wasn’t going to accept it and was actually upset about it. It was a terrifying opportunity. However, after getting to Thailand, receiving my school assignment and arriving to the area I would be teaching in. I realized that it would not be a strictly teaching opportunity. The students taught me more than I would teach them.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use this money for a number of different things. The first would be to pay off the last of my student loans, can’t wait to finish them. The second would be to put some money between my current and future son’s 529 accounts. Lastly, a portion would go to some future home renovations as my wife and I want to stay in our neighborhood and current home. We have great friends and neighbors with future friends for our sons and don’t want to leave!