When I was in first grade I was paired with the special needs classroom at my school. I quickly found that I was able to connect with the students in a way that was mutually beneficial; seeing their growth, and the way they lit up, lit me up! In high school, I once again partnered to be a peer helper with our school's intensive needs program. I worked 1-1 with a non-verbal student named Jamie who changed my life. I knew that I wanted to make a difference. I knew that I wanted to become a teacher

In 2024 I worked with a group of incredible 5th grade students on a 6-week student-led 3D printing and design project. One of my students had a dog named Buddy who had become ill because he ate too quickly. My student team met with a local vet, and later designed a custom slow-feeder bowl for Buddy that had multiple inserts. The bowl more than tripled Buddy's eating time! Helping to solve this real-world problem was even better than the cash award they won at the regional competition.

If I were to win $25,000 I would take my family on a trip to Iceland. After suddenly losing my mother to brain cancer in 2020, I have made every effort to prioritize making memories with the people I love over material items. I have always wanted to soak in the Blue Lagoon and traverse the glacial waterfalls and volcanic landscapes of Iceland. I would love to explore their national parks, visit some of the 266 unique museums and immerse my family in the rich Viking heritage.