Experience

My Journey:

On August of 2015, I graduated from Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU) with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology Emphasize School Guidance. While attending community college, I obtained an Associates in Criminal Justice in order to pursue a law degree. Upon being accepted to SWAU, I switched my degree to psychology. During my first year, I was approached by one of my professors and asked if I would be interested in applying for their joint program with the education department. The thought of teaching had never crossed my mind, but it intrigued me. I figured it could be something I could do while I finished my degree in psychology. Little did I know it would spark a hidden passion inside me.

I was offered a teaching position at the Adventist Academy of Santa Fe, as the K-4 teacher. Going into my first year teaching I was not sure what to expect, especially in a multigrade school. As the school year progressed, I discovered that I enjoyed being a teacher. I found that I had a real gift of working with children and being able to provide them with a personalized education with my psychology background. Seeing the growth of each individual student brought so much joy! I was not a parent, but I felt like a proud parent seeing their accomplishments. That is when I realized that I enjoyed being in the classroom and working with children. I knew that I had unknowingly stubbled upon my purpose.

My first year teaching was full of many of growing experiences in my professional life. I learned how to effectively manage a classroom. Developed the ability to identify what each student required in order to be successful. It assisted in working with students to create a personalized education plan. I also learned to do a lot of self reflection. I believe that a great educator is one that is not afraid of growth, change, or improvement. I don't want to be a teacher stuck in her ways. I want to grow and be the best that I can be for my students. That can only be achieved if I am willing to admit the areas I need growth in. Lastly, I learned to take care of myself. Educators don't clock out once that bell rings. It is a field where we give more of ourselves and our time. My first year I gave too much. I wanted to do it all. I was stretched too thin to the point of exhaustion and tears. Eventually, I realized that I was not super woman. I had my limits. How could I give the best of myself to all my students to come, if I had given it all already? I have take all these lessons with me throughout my years, and I look forward to learning new ones.