Mike Zampella

Tell us why you became a teacher

I became a teacher so that I can make a difference in the world. I always wanted to be a different type of teacher. Being young and a little immature myself, I'm able to connect well with my students and set high expectations that they meet willingly instead of forcefully or with fear tactics.

Tell us about your most memorable teaching experience

I taught a particularly difficult student. He was always in trouble and he never wanted to be at school. He worked better for me than any of his other teachers, but it was still a struggle. He was unfairly labeled as a troublemaker before he even got to school by his peers. Years went by and he came back to see me. He let me know that I was the only reason he continued school, and now he is pursuing a teaching career to be a "good teacher" like me. That was all the validation I needed.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I have a three year old that I'd like to start a college fund for. I will put most of it for him, and then I'll throw a big party for my students to celebrate!