"I hope to make a difference in the special education field by helping students receive the inclusive and individualized education they deserve."

Hometown

Lihue, Hawai‛i

Department

Special Education

Related Degrees

• BEd, Exceptional Students & Elementary Education

Are you student teaching now?
I have not been placed in a classroom yet, but I have done rounds at different schools. We do Sound Partners at a school in Kalihi where we shadow the students we work with, and the teacher that my students have is amazing. The best part so far is working with the kids and seeing them learn and grow every week.

When did you know you wanted to become a teacher? Why did you choose special education?
My daughter has special needs, so when she started preschool in a special education setting, I fell in love with being there and being a part of helping in the classroom. Since that moment, I have embarked on this educational journey.

As a mother of a child who needs more accommodations and modifications in her daily classroom routines and activities, I have become very interested in special education. Being in her classroom, I realized that there should be more individualization in the daily activities for the students and that not every student should be doing the same activities the same way.

What has been the best part of your experience in the ESEE program so far?
The best thing is our rounds day. We get to visit different schools around the island and experience the different communities in the classroom and schools.

In what ways do you hope to make a difference in the field of education?
I hope to make a difference in the special education field by helping students receive the inclusive and individualized education they deserve.

How are the people and the program in the COE helping you along your way?
I have professors who are very open and willing to share their experiences and who are impacting my educational journey.

What are your post-program plans?
Hopefully to teach in a special education classroom and continue my education in inclusivity.