Tierra Hudson

Tell us why you became a teacher

Have you ever had a moment of human connection that lit a fire within you? When I was in college, I had no idea what career path to choose, until the weekend that I volunteered to help the children at church. I had one small encounter with a little girl where she needed help with her craft, and I got to be the one to help her. I saw her eyes light up as she succeeded, and I felt a spark within myself as well. I knew in that moment that I was meant to be an influence on kids everyday.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My second year teaching, I was a late hire, and began two months into the school year. The class I was given had many challenges waiting for me. One girl in particular would yell, stomp, kick things, and refuse to comply when she was triggered. Regardless, I made a commitment to myself to lavish her in love. By the end of the year, she was a true leader and a brand new student- one who only ever wanted someone to see her and believe in her. I will never forget this experience.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Truth be told, I would use this money for a lot of practical needs such as paying off some of my student loan debt that I received from attending college, and some of the medical bills that I have racked up this year due to health issues. Finally, I would without a doubt donate some of the money to an organization that supports a cause I strongly believe in, which is rescuing children from human trafficking.