Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because when I felt hopeless at home, one person changed everything, my math teacher. He believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself and showed me that I was capable of more than I imagined. Their support helped me excel in math and regain confidence. I became a teacher to give that same belief, encouragement, and opportunity to students who may need someone to see their potential.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

One of my most memorable experiences as a teacher involved a student who strongly disliked coming to math class. She often yelled at me and struggled to complete her work, but she ultimately passed the class. Five years later, she wrote me a letter apologizing for how difficult she had been and shared that she wished she had been a better student. That moment reminded me that our impact as teachers can last far beyond the classroom.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I had $25,000, I would use it to travel with my 15-year-old daughter. I want to expose her to different cultures and help her learn how to be culturally aware, respectful, and open-minded. Experiencing the world firsthand would give her perspectives that can’t be taught in a classroom. I want her to have opportunities I never had growing up and to see how big and diverse the world truly is.