Tell us why you became a teacher

I have always known that I wanted to work with people and genuinely make an impact on the world, and becoming a teacher seemed like a purposeful way to fulfill that. There is a Japanese concept, Ikigai, that advises to reach true fulfillment in life you need to find something you love, something you’re good at, something you can make money at, and something the world needs. Teaching achieves this for me. It is such a gift, and it is an honor having an influence in the next generation’s lives.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My memorable moments honestly occur on a daily basis, and I know many would feel the same. I recall students piling into my room on the last day of school to sing some group karaoke, sharing in acts of kindness across the school, lining the halls to sing happy birthday to important people; the kids are just good, and when there are so many good humans all in one place, you just end up with something meaningful every day that you’re there.

What would you do with the $25,000?

The 25,000 would be monumental in helping me continue to build an independent future while also continuing to work for the best for my students. This is a job that runs on passion, and getting to have more financial freedom to supplement things with is always a welcome and positive situation.