The route that I took through college was less than traditional. There were many hurdles and at times I even considered not walking during graduation. However, as I now reflect on my educational journey, I feel a sense of pride and excitement. I am eager to meet and know my future students, but also to continue my education beyond that of my time here at UNLV.

With that being said, I would not be where I am today had it not been for three very special professors. First, I want to thank Dr. Sophie Ladd (EDEL 442, 443) for her guidance, love, and unwavering support throughout my time with her. She is the real reason that I chose to walk across that stage in December. She also passed along her passion for literacy onto me through tutoring and using Words Their Way. Second, I want to thank Michelle Arroyo (EDEL 323) for inspiring me to be the best possible teacher that I can be. Her methodical teaching and advice has had (and continues to have) an impact on me. I am forever grateful for her and for my green folder that I will use throughout the coming years. Third, I want to thank Dr. Jeffrey Shih (EDEL 433) for giving me an otherwise impossible love for math. Not only did he enlighten me with his CGI framework, but he managed to help me understand concepts that once eluded me, and I hope to now pass this knowledge onto my own future students. Additionally, I would also like to thank both of my facilitators, Ronette Badalucco and Sandy Abston for their assistance and readiness to help myself and my cohort throughout my last three semesters at UNLV. As well as my mentors, Shannon Cuddihy and Tracey Summers. There are not enough words to express my gratitude for you all as I begin a new chapter in my journey as an Elementary Education teacher.