From a young age, I’ve always found myself drawn to the joy of helping others learn. What began as a simple love for caring for children grew into a deeper calling, a desire to become a teacher who not only educates but uplifts, supports, and inspires the next generation. For me, teaching is more than a career; it’s a way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children every day. The decision to pursue teaching solidified during my seventh-grade year, one of the most challenging times in my life. I was navigating personal struggles, social change, and the emotional toll of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the chaos, one of my teachers consistently showed up for me offering encouragement, and compassion. Her belief in me helped me believe in myself, and I realized I wanted to be that person for someone else. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to gaining hands-on experience with children. I’ve worked as a nanny for five years, interned at Woodland Montessori School, and supported students in a local homeschool co-op. These roles have shaped me into a patient, empathetic, and resourceful ‘educator-in-training’. I’ve seen first-hand how small gestures, like a smile, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement, can impact a child’s confidence and sense of belonging. In the fall of 2025, I will attend the University of Montana Western in Dillon to pursue a degree in Elementary Education for grades K-8. I chose UMW for its strong education program, affordability, and flexible scheduling that supports working students. While attending, I plan to participate in their unique Rule-School program, where upperclassmen gain experience leading local classrooms on Fridays. This opportunity will help me grow into a confident, capable teacher before I even graduate. My ultimate goal is to teach in a small-town or rural public school, much like the ones I attended. I want to create a classroom that feels safe, welcoming, and full of possibility. I believe all children deserve a teacher who sees them for who they are, who values their voice, and who challenges them to grow, not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well. Teaching is my purpose. I want to be the person a child remembers not just for the lessons I taught, but for the way I made them feel. With every student I meet, I hope to be a source of stability, encouragement, and belief, and in doing so, make a lifelong impact.