Like any career or even as students in school, breaking into the world of education can be intimidating or confusing at first. But when given the right tools and support system— passion and hardwork can quickly blossom into a successful outlook and a career. Known as “Ms. M”--- to students of Mr. Pregitzer– Crystal Medeiros class of 2019, Kalāheo alumna shared her journey of growth through sports to education– all through the lens of teaching. 

For Medeiros, passion first came into her life in the sport of soccer. Playing all the way to high school– she related the sentiment of teamwork and commitment to now into another passion of her life— teaching.  “Soccer was always such a great way for me to dedicate myself to something bigger than myself— representing Kalāheo, and playing with a team while also having fun. Overall, I have so many memories of us having  many successful seasons and making it to OIAs 3 years and states”.

“I first went to Windward Community College. That was where it all started for me. I was able to secure athletic scholarships from other schools, but decided to attend Windward Community College and was accepted in the Paipai o Ko’olau program. It was perfect timing because  COVID happened in the middle of my second year, I would have missed out playing anyway. So I was happy to stay home. And in the long run, it saved me money!”. 

And because college may not solely be about monetary value, Medeiros described what more WCC had to offer when she attended,  “Itʻs great because the professors there are able to give you their time and attention due to the smaller class sizes. And if thatʻs something you need, I would say thatʻs the way to go”. 

Later transferring to UH Manoa, she shed light on managing time between work life and her own school life. “I know this gets told so much to students but you cannot procrastinate. For me, that's the best way I can get everything done. Procrastinating can interfere with the multiple things that you need to get done,” she explained. “Sometimes it can be super stressful! There can be a lot of work, it's really easy to procrastinate but it's good to set goals for yourself to plan to get it done before it all piles up.” 

After changing her major from Kinesiology to Secondary education for general science,“All throughout my schooling at Kalāheo, I always thought science was fun! From Mrs. Koopmanʻs class in Human Physiology – it was something Iʻve always gravitated towards and ended up being the degree I pursued.” 

“But I knew that I wanted to focus on education because I love the ability of helping others and helping them grow. Even as a student teacher right now, it's such a good feeling to help students– I was once in their shoes– with homework, classwork and tests, I know life can get crazy and its good to have extra support in and out of school” she explained. 

Open to teaching for an array of schools, Medeiros shed light on her point of view of students when it comes to career paths. “I think taking the time and  trying as many things as possible is what makes it all worthwhile, just being adventurous it's the best way to experience new things. It can help you find where you truly belong, your interests, and for as of right now, that is teaching”.