How did you discover your passion for what you do, and what opportunities have helped shape your career?

I have always been studious, and knew I wanted to change the world in some small way. In college, I thought that meant landing a job that was unique and unlike any other job. I was fortunate enough to work for the government and had many exciting experiences. However, I did not feel fulfilled. I left that job to start teaching, and I immediately knew it was what I was meant to do from the start. I love children and seeing them learn and understand things for the first time. I also enjoy training new teachers because they are the future. I know I found my lifelong career because I never feel like I am going to work.

Reflecting back on 2020, how did you adapt to so many aspects of life moving virtual?

I had to really throw myself into virtual meetings, but I am thankful that we have that technology to even be able to do that. I taught online and in person at the same time for the first two months of school, and I have also been teaching face-to-face in a brick and mortar school since September 2020. Our schools never closed so it was a major adjustment, but I like challenges. Once I was able to get used to what “normalcy” looked like for this school year, I wanted to shift and make sure my mental health was in a good state. That is when I decided to start a small virtual book club. Leisurely reading had gone to the wayside when I was getting my master’s so I wanted to bring it back and have discussions about the books I read. It has really evolved on its own, and we are still virtual today, even with more and more people being vaccinated. I plan to keep the book club virtual because it is easy, you don’t have to get dressed and drive very far, and it allows women from all over the U.S. (and even London!) to get together once a month and share their thoughts. I am thankful for the technology we had in 2020, which enabled us to remain connected, yet safe.