Jesse Vihlidal

Tell us why you became a teacher

From an early age I have been captivated by science, biology in particular. I love sharing that passion with others. Helping students discover the wonders and importance of science seemed like the perfect way to spend my life. Teaching has been an incredibly rewarding experience and I’m grateful for this privilege daily. My students inspire me. It’s not always easy but I can honestly say I’m doing what I love. Even on the harder days I remind myself “I don’t have to teach, I get to teach!”

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

Some of my most memorable experiences include running into former students after they graduate. They are often happy to see me and some have expressed to me that I inspired them to pursue a career in science or teaching. It is so fulfilling to hear. I love seeing my former students go on to become successful nurses, doctors, researchers, and teachers. It keeps me inspired to be a good teacher for my current students. You don’t realize what an impact you may have on their lives and society.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would love to use it to start a scholarship program to help students from my lower-income, rural school district. Ideally, I’d like to help offset some of the costs of college for students wanting to go into fields related to science or medicine. Helping students make that next step in pursuing such careers would be a wonderful legacy for this science teacher to leave behind.