Tell us why you became a teacher

I actually started off as a business major but I never felt like any of what I was studying had meaning to me. So I started taking some deaf culture and special education classes and it was the first time I felt truly compelled and passionate about something. It’s the only thing that has ever made sense to me, like I was finally doing what I was meant to do.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

When I was in college I studied abroad in Ghana, Africa. This experience shaped me in so many ways. It was so rewarding to experience a culture so different from the one we have here. It also made me appreciate all of the resources and funding we have in America. The students in Africa were some of the hardest working, kindest, and most resilient children I’ve ever met. They changed my life.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25,000 I would pay off a large chunk of my student loans. Unfortunately I am paying for college on my own. My parents were always supportive of my goals but financially I am independent. I was fortunate to get my masters degree right away, but unfortunately my student loans are significant.