"My goal is to be an advocate for students with special needs and to help drive meaningful change within the community."

Hometown

Kailua-Kona, Hawai'i island

Department

Special Education

Related Degrees

• BEd in Special Education

Why did you choose to become a teacher, in general?

Education was a cornerstone of my upbringing. Growing up, my siblings and I were encouraged to excel academically, and I was particularly driven, often feeling like it was my role to help teach others—even in kindergarten. I vividly remember my curiosity about how one teacher could manage a whole classroom, and I was deeply impressed by how my kindergarten teacher, with such dedication and warmth, guided 25 young minds to read, share, and learn. Her ability to foster a sense of community and encourage us to think beyond ourselves left a lasting impression.

Our class was actively involved in meaningful activities—cleaning beaches, singing for the elderly, and assembling sanitation kits for the homeless. These experiences not only shaped my understanding of community service but also solidified my aspiration to become a teacher. I saw firsthand how effective teaching could inspire and uplift students, and I was determined to be a part of that transformative process.

Throughout my academic journey, I’ve encountered a wide range of teachers who have each contributed to my growth, whether positively or negatively. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to being a positive influence in the classroom. I hope to inspire my future students just as my teachers inspired me, and perhaps one day, motivate someone else to pursue a career in teaching.

Why did you choose to become licensed in special education?

During my high school years, I had the opportunity to volunteer in a severe needs classroom, where one of my family friends was receiving support due to leukemia. Despite his non-verbal status and the challenges posed by his condition, he had previously led a relatively typical life, which made the transition to this specialized setting particularly poignant for me. I volunteered three days a week for two years, supporting his classroom and witnessing his gradual recovery. Once he was able to return to his peers with a moderate diagnosis, I continued to assist in that environment for six months, gaining valuable insights into the diverse needs of students with varying levels of support.

This experience highlighted the critical importance of dedicated special education professionals and the profound impact an invested adult can have on a student’s life. Over the past two decades, I have also been involved with the Special Olympics in Kona and the ARC of Kona, where I have cherished every moment. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the challenges and rewards associated with special education.

I am passionate about addressing the disparities in special education and am committed to contributing positively to this underrepresented field. My goal is to be an advocate for students with special needs and to help drive meaningful change within the community.

Why do you feel it is important to have diversity in the classroom?

Diversity in the classroom is crucial not only for personal growth but also for fostering confidence and empathy among students. Having teachers and peers who reflect a range of backgrounds can profoundly impact a student’s sense of self and their understanding of others. For me, having Asian teachers growing up was empowering—I saw their success as a reflection of what was possible for myself, which fueled my own confidence and aspirations.

Diversity enriches the learning environment by bringing multiple perspectives into the classroom. This variety accelerates critical thinking and problem-solving skills as students learn to navigate and appreciate different viewpoints. By incorporating diverse perspectives into the curriculum, students gain a deeper understanding of various cultures and experiences, which helps build a more inclusive and accepting community.

Creating a classroom environment that embraces diversity can significantly benefit students in their adult lives. It helps combat racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination by promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding. Additionally, it supports students from marginalized groups, including those with disabilities or those from low socioeconomic backgrounds, by ensuring they see their experiences and identities valued and represented.