I became a teacher because my 6th grade math teacher ignited my love for math. Her advanced class challenged me, teaching me to learn from failure and develop strategies for my learning disabilities. Her support inspired my desire to teach. In 7th and 8th grade, I helped her 6th graders and stayed after school to discuss teaching strategies. Those conversations shaped my approach and continue to influence me as a 13th-year teacher.

My most memorable teaching experience was at Del Valle High School when my students threw me a surprise birthday party before school. They decorated the classroom, gave me costume items, and even pushed my face into a cake, a Hispanic birthday tradition I later learned about. As a second-year teacher, having known my students for only four months, this moment showed me that I had truly made a difference in their lives and solidified my passion for teaching

If I had $25,000, I would use it to repay my parents for the IVF bills they’ve been helping with. My wife and I are trying to get pregnant and have gone through one egg retrieval, resulting in five embryos. After a chemical pregnancy, miscarriage, and multiple failed attempts, we’re now in our second IVF round. As a teacher, I don’t earn enough to cover these costs, so I’d like to repay my parents for their generous support during this challenging time.