In college, friends often came to me for help with chemistry work. I eventually started tutoring through the school’s chemistry department. I felt like I excelled at explaining concepts in a comprehensible way that helped my peers understand, and I wanted to expand my sphere of influence. I became a teacher because it brings me satisfaction to play a small part in the learning process of others, and I know how critically we need scientifically literate youth to lead us into the future!

There are too many! One that stands out happened on a field trip to the seacoast. It was around 2021, and I brought my marine biology students to the rocky shore to find macroalgae. They were so excited to go on a field trip, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. We collected many different varieties of red, green, and brown algae and ultimately constructed an herbarium. One of the species was edible, so we took a trip over to the school foods room the next day to cook and sample it!

One of my dreams is to cultivate the land I live on. I would use the money to invest in a greenhouse as well as native plants such as sugar maples, pollinator-friendly perennials, apple and evergreen trees, and berries. I’d love to have the space to invite family and friends to pick berries in the summer, cut bouquets for their dining room tables, and chase butterflies around the yard. I’d also love to create summer learning opportunities for kids and families about nature and gardening.