Connect Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher because my culinary instructor once saw potential in me that I didn’t see in myself. While I was working in fine dining at Disney, he called to recommend me for a teaching position. Although the industry was rewarding, nothing compared to helping students grow, gain confidence, and reach the kinds of opportunities that shaped my own career.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

My most memorable teaching experience has been preparing my students for the Cook Around the World competition at Walt Disney World this April. Being invited to compete and seeing our program featured on Telemundo was incredibly meaningful. It showed my students’ hard work is being recognized and opened doors to opportunities they never imagined.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use part of the $25,000 to help cover the costs for my students and me to attend the Cook Around the World competition at Walt Disney World. The remaining amount would go toward replacing my car, which was recently totaled in an accident. I currently rely on others for transportation, so having a reliable vehicle would help me get to work and support my students.