Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher to connect with the new generation and contribute to society's growth. Inspired by my high school science teacher's simplicity, knowledge, and patience, I strive to support my students. Teaching allows me to inspire first-generation learners and students from diverse backgrounds, providing them with resources to succeed. This profession lets me give back to society the love and support I've received throughout my life.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my ELD students shared that he felt connected and understood everything in my class, despite English not being his first language. He grasped the "whys" and "hows" behind math skills, related new learning to previous knowledge, and connected classroom lessons to real-life experiences. He even began helping his older siblings with their math assignments, a role reversal from before. Now a student at NAU, he sent me a letter saying he wants to be an educator to support students like him.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I want to pursue an EdD to apply research in solving practical problems in educational settings, preparing for leadership roles. My focus is on the learning gap caused by COVID-19, which impacted students' knowledge, skills, and attitudes towards formal education, affecting them emotionally, socially, mentally, and academically. I aim to research administrative and leadership strategies to bridge this gap. The $25,000 will fund my professional development and research for my doctorate degree.