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Isaiah Maldonado

525

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Finalist

Bio

My name is Isaiah Maldonado, and I dream of changing children's lives. I've been a college advisor for the past 3 years, I've overseen 6 different high schools, I've helped families and students fill out countless FAFSA and scholarship applications, and I'm a first-generation student. I am returning to school to earn my single-subject credential and MAE. I also coach basketball, both high school and AAU travel ball. I've coached for 6 years, coaching 8 months out of the year, and run a nonprofit for my basketball organization. I am also a step-father of two thanks to my beautiful wife.

Education

Alliant International University

Master's degree program
2024 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Education, General

Simpson University

Bachelor's degree program
2020 - 2021
  • Majors:
    • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities

Shasta College

Associate's degree program
2012 - 2020
  • Majors:
    • Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
    • Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Education, General
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Education

    • Dream career goals:

      Changing children's lives.

    • College Advisor

      College and Career Options INC.
      2020 – 20244 years

    Sports

    Basketball

    Varsity
    2013 – 20141 year

    Research

    • Education, General

      College and Career Options INC. — College Advisor
      2020 – Present

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Shasta County Recreation — Coach
      2015 – 2016

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Kathleen L. Small Teaching Scholarship
    Choosing a career is a deeply personal decision, often shaped by a combination of experiences, values, and aspirations. For me, pursuing a career in education is not just a professional choice but a calling driven by a profound commitment to shaping young minds and fostering a love for learning. My journey toward this path is rooted in a series of formative experiences that have illuminated the profound impact of education and inspired me to contribute to this noble field. From an early age, I was fortunate to have educators who made a significant difference in my life. Their passion, dedication, and ability to connect with students left an indelible mark on me. In particular, my wife Haleigh inspires me to continue with education and pursuing an advance degree. She's a 3rd grade teacher, incredibly skilled at connecting with families and students, and she drives me to be the best educator I can possibly be. One of the primary reasons I am drawn to a career in education is the opportunity to contribute to the personal and academic growth of students. Education is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about fostering a supportive environment where students feel valued and motivated to reach their full potential. I have always been inspired by the transformative power of education. Witnessing students overcome challenges and achieve their goals is incredibly rewarding. This aspect of teaching—being a catalyst for positive change in students’ lives—resonates deeply with my personal values. Moreover, the field of education is continually evolving, presenting exciting challenges and opportunities for growth. The dynamic nature of teaching requires constant adaptation and innovation, qualities that I find intellectually stimulating and professionally fulfilling. The prospect of integrating new technologies, pedagogical strategies, and interdisciplinary approaches into the classroom excites me. I am eager to embrace these changes and contribute to the development of progressive educational practices that can better meet the needs of diverse student populations. Another motivating factor is the chance to be a role model and mentor. Teachers often play a pivotal role in students’ lives, providing guidance, support, and encouragement. I am passionate about the idea of being someone students can look up to, offering them not only academic knowledge but also life skills and values. I believe that educators have a unique ability to influence students’ character development and instill a sense of responsibility, empathy, and resilience. Furthermore, my commitment to education is also fueled by a desire to address educational inequities. I am keenly aware of the disparities that exist in educational opportunities and resources, and I am dedicated to working towards a more equitable system. By pursuing a career in education, I hope to contribute to efforts aimed at closing achievement gaps and ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education regardless of their background. In conclusion, my pursuit of a career in education is driven by a combination of personal experiences, professional aspirations, and a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of teaching. The opportunity to inspire, guide, and support students, coupled with the chance to contribute to meaningful educational advancements, makes this path both a purpose and a passion for me. As I embark on this journey, I am motivated by the knowledge that my efforts can make a lasting impact on individuals and, by extension, society as a whole.