“It is worth it all to validate your skills as a teacher and to know you can make a difference.”

Hometown

Hilo, HI

Department

Special Education

Related Degrees

• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate, Special Education (PBSPED)

How are you able to manage being in the program and working full time as a teacher?
It is challenging and requires resilience and good organization. Most of all, it requires perseverance. Always be open to suggestions and support from your field supervisors and MUSE mentors. You will need their support to manage both work and school. It is also essential to have supportive cohort members.

How has the MUSE (Mentoring Unique Special Educators) mentor and program supported you?
I am so thankful for my MUSE mentor who has been there throughout the program and is there to provide guidance, a listening ear, advice, and support.

Do you recommend the emergency hire route to others thinking about doing the program?
I would totally recommend emergency hire to people. However, I want people to know it is not easy. It is an internal conversation you have to have with yourself. “How much does this mean to you?” “Are you willing to commit?” Know that you will need to make sacrifices and commit to a very rigid schedule. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes or fail. Use your resources and your skills. It is worth it all to validate your skills as a teacher and to know you can make a difference.

Did you always know you wanted to become a teacher? Briefly describe your road to this pathway.
I wanted to make a difference somehow because I wanted to be a voice for those who didn’t have one. I felt children needed a voice.

How did you become interested in special education in particular?
I did home visiting and worked at Easter Seals. I also worked as a permanent educational assistant.

Why did you choose to pursue this program?
I chose this program because financially I couldn’t afford to go back to school, but I knew that I could pursue my dream to be a teacher.

What has been the best part of the program experience so far?
The best part has been the awesome people I have met on this journey – all of the faculty members, fellow cohort members, and support staff.

In what ways do you hope to make a difference in the field of education?
I am going to apply all the skills and strategies I have learned to help my students to feel empowered and supported through their academic journey.

How are the people and the program in the COE helping you along your way?
They are helping by being excellant mentors, patient, motivating, and positive leaders for change in the field of Special Education.

What are your post-program plans?
To apply all I have learned and work for the Department of Education.