"Through MEdT, I can finally work in the field, create inquiry-based lesson plans, and implement all my time and knowledge to building an educational foundation for the kids."

Hometown

Tinian, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Department

School of Teacher Education - M.Ed. in Teaching

Related Degrees

• MEdT, Teaching - Elementary, Secondary & Hawaiian Language Immersion

What does winning the Lucille Hodgins grant* mean to you?
The Lucille Hodgins grant signified to me that my dreams for education have been heard, praised, and supported by the amazing members of the Delta Kappa Gamma society. I feel empowered knowing that I have received their support.

How were you selected?
When I was told I was selected, I was too shocked and elated to remember the reasons why I was chosen, but I do remember hearing the word “excellent application.” It’s really all thanks to the teachers in my life who wrote a recommendation letter on my behalf or inspired me to grasp all opportunities, my family who taught me the importance of living my life doing what I love (teaching!), and Cohort 40 for their support and faith in me.

Briefly describe your road to college.
I’m in it for the kids! Teachers have inspired me to dedicate my life helping students unlock their inner potential and encouraging them to always strive for something greater. I tutored, became a member of the AmeriCorp during high school, and was involved in a lot of community service projects. These experiences only strengthened my love for helping others.

How has the MEdT program helped you make a difference?
The support I receive from my mentors, advisors, and Cohort 40 has been phenomenal. Teaching is incredibly stressful with bouts of anxiety and worries, but with the right support group, those “crash and burn” days turn into insightful lessons. Through MEdT, I can finally work in the field, create inquiry-based lesson plans, and implement all my time and knowledge to building an educational foundation for the kids.

What are your future plans?
I plan to graduate in 2015 and move back to my hometown, Tinian, to be a social studies educator.

*The Delta Kappa Gamma Lucille Hodgins Selective Recruitment Grant awards $1,000 to future educators each year. Janessa Aquino and Paulina Felcher, both COE students, were selected this year. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, commitment to education as a profession, financial need, and potential for success.