Ruba S. Asbahi

Tell us why you became a teacher

I wanted to become a teacher because I believe education shapes not just minds, but souls. History teaches us who we are, where we’ve been, and who we can become. I wanted to help young people think critically, speak courageously, and see their own power. Teaching allows me to mentor, challenge, and uplift students so they can rise beyond limits and shape a more just world.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I had many memorable experiences, but among them was when one of my students placed “top of the world” in her international Cambridge exam, and went on to be accepted at Cambridge university. However, every graduation of every student is a memorable experience to me.

What would you do with the $25,000?

After paying of some debt I have, I would finally have the chance to make the repairs my house desperately needs. Moreover, this money would help support my dream of establishing a poetry grant in my father’s name (he was a poet).