I express my special note of thanks to our portfolio project supervisor, Dr. Patricia Pashby, for her continued guidance and thorough feedback in completing this final submission. Her extraordinary expertise in language pedagogy and dedication to learners' success have been truly inspirational in shaping my teacher-self for all classroom years to come. 

I would like to offer my deepest gratitude to the LTS Program Director, Dr. Keli Yerian, for her unwavering support on so many levels throughout this program. I thank her for her confidence in my abilities and for making me believe that my dreams of creating a world where all languages are valued and equitably represented are worth pursuing. 

I would also take this opportunity to acknowledge the support from the International Cultural Services Program (ICSP) Scholarship, which was essential to completing this degree. The scholarship was not only a financial transaction for my cultural services but also a transformational opportunity to first understand my own culture and then view the world beyond the bounds of culture, religion, language, race, or color. 

Lastly, I have been privileged to be brought up by parents who instilled in me a deep appreciation for education. I am forever grateful for the values and support they gave me to become an individual who is passionate to live a meaningful life.