I love hearing about [my students’] dreams and goals and giving them advice or just supporting them in reaching those goals.
Why did you feel it was important to commit to a year of service?
I’ve always felt strongly about education which is the reason I want to become a teacher. I committed to this year of service for a few reasons. The chief among them is that I wanted to get myself in the classroom helping students as quickly as possible. The second big reason was the idea of college readiness that Great Oaks supports. College is becoming more and more important when it comes to finding jobs and too many people are locked out of college because of money or their previous education; and while I can’t do much about the money I can definitely help with the education!
What has been the most rewarding thing about your current year of service?
The bonds I have formed with my students definitely. I work with 16 students in math mentoring and 6 kids in my goal setting group and all of them have a special spot in my heart. I love hearing about their dreams and goals and giving them advice or just supporting them in reaching those goals.
Who is a memorable mentor in your life and what would you say to them today about the impact they had on you?
My 10th grade history teacher Mr. Alu was beyond passionate about his job. He loved working with kids, he loved history, and he loved teaching. It was his passion and love for his job that truly inspired me to work toward becoming a history teacher. If I could say one thing to Mr. Alu it would be thank you. Thank you for showing me what real passion looks like, and thank you for showing me what it means to truly love your job.
