As a 28-year-old future Black educator, it took me six years to realize that my passion was right before me. Growing up, I always knew I wanted to work with children but didn’t know which career path to choose. In 2014, my freshman year of college, I majored in Computer Science based on my mother’s recommendation but shortly dropped out to gain work experience. By 2017, I started working for a non-profit organization that services children, teens, and the elderly. Subconsciously, I was searching for an outlet to discover my interests and hobbies but had no plan for my future goals. However, working with children helped me re-discover my joy and purpose. Within 6 years as an Assistant Afterschool Director, I created incredible connections with the students, parents, and staff. Along with the assurance of the teachers, I realized that I wanted to serve the students beyond my position. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I re-enrolled in school and majored in Childhood Education while working. Unfortunately, I couldn’t manage more than 1-2 classes per semester, delaying my expected graduation. By 2022, I gave birth to my son determined to continue my education no matter how long it took. Upon my return to work, I was promised a schedule that would accommodate my child’s daycare schedule. Sadly, after a few months, my supervisors gave me an ultimatum between changing my child’s daycare schedule or risking my job. Boldly, I resigned from my job to focus on being a full-time student in 2023. Currently, I’m pursuing my Bachelor’s in Education and am on track to graduate by 2026. I declared my concentration in Mathematics, and I plan to be a math teacher for middle or high school students. In 2024, the teacher shortage in the United States increased to an all-time high, contributing to the education crisis. Additionally, there’s a low percentage of teachers of color in education. From my experience, having teachers of color from elementary through high school gave me safety, assurance, familiarity, and knowledge about different cultures and ethnicities. Specifically, I witnessed Black women educators seeing the potential in all their students and pushing them to be the greatest version of themselves. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for all my future students. Especially as a Black woman, it’s vital for students of all races, including students of color, to see themselves represented in teachers and expose them to inclusivity. I want to change the negative perception of math and find ways to connect it to real-world topics. Throughout my journey, motherhood has been the most beautiful, rewarding but challenging transition I’ve experienced. Before, I was a people-pleaser who lacked self-confidence and didn’t take any risks. After giving birth to my son, I became a nurturer, and protector and developed a thick skin. I’ve learned the meaning of patience, empathy, and unconditional love. Beyond my passion for becoming a teacher, my love for my son gave me a new purpose and reflection of life. Although my son just turned two, it’s incredible seeing him develop and grow into his personality. I’m loving every stage of motherhood and looking forward to the future.