When I was in high school I was very sick, and when I came back from being in the hospital, my senior year anatomy and physiology teacher made a lesson based on what happened to me. It was incredible, and I felt so seen and special. If I can be that person for another young mind so they feel even 20% of how I felt then, I will know I am doing a good job. I love helping kids and seeing in them things they don’t see themselves just yet.

My most memorable teaching experience is currently in progress! I have been leading the same advisory in my 6-12 school and half of the students I have known since 6th grade and the other half since 9th, and they are almost done with their junior year. I love them so much. Seeing them grow from children to hardworking and empathetic young adults, is incredible. When they graduate next year I will be inconsolable, but to be a small part in their adolescent journey is an honor and a privilege.

With the $25,000, I would hope to start or fund a scholarship for a high school senior going into a nursing, oncology, or women’s reproductive health degree. My mother, who supported my dream of becoming a teacher more than anyone, passed away in October after a 6 year long journey with ovarian cancer. It was because of her dedicated nurses and various doctors that we were able to have the time we had with her. I hope to use the money to fund a new generation of caring nurses and doctors.