Roberto Llopart

Tell us why you became a teacher

While working in the corporate world, I had an opportunity to volunteer as a Big Brother for a high school student. I would go to his school every Friday during my lunch break to connect and build a relationship. The student had such a profound impact on my view of the world at that time that I decided to pursue any opportunity to work with youth, even though I did not go to school to be a teacher. I landed my first youth-centered role as a camp counselor, and the rest is history.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I'm fortunate to work at a school where alums return to visit during the Christmas holidays. The reconnections with current college students who sat in my classroom as sixth graders are beyond my wildest dreams. I get to witness firsthand the impact these young humans are making in the world, and I was allowed to be a minor component in their previous life; they chose me to come back and share their growth and challenges. There is nothing better than that for me.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would pay down some debt and the remainder of the money would go to savings. I'm pretty basic:).