Books have always been my escape, my comfort, and my guide — but more than anything, they have shaped who I am and who I want to become. From a young age, reading gave me a window into other worlds, perspectives, and lives, and I fell in love with how stories could stir up such deep emotion and thought. That love only deepened when I discovered the work of Stephen King. While he’s often known for horror, what draws me to his writing is the heart beneath the fear; the way he blends the extraordinary with the everyday and creates characters who feel incredibly real. Two of his books in particular, Fairy Tale and 11/22/63, have had a lasting impact on me. Fairy Tale reminded me of the importance of imagination, courage, and love. It follows a young protagonist who gets pulled into a magical world to try to save his dog, and what struck me most was how his strength wasn’t in being fearless, but in being brave despite the fear for his dog that he truly cares about. That is something I think every child needs to hear—that they are capable of greatness, even when the world feels uncertain or scary because love is the greatest force of them all. 11/22/63 made me think deeply about time, history, and how the smallest decisions can change everything. It made me reflect on how important it is to be intentional with our choices and how one person really can make a difference, even if it is not always in the way they expect. As I read, I kept thinking, “These are the kinds of lessons I want to bring into my own classroom someday.” That is why I am pursuing a degree in elementary education. I want to help children see the magic in learning and the power in their own stories. Books taught me empathy, resilience, and imagination—three things I believe are essential for both teaching and life. I hope to create a classroom where every student feels safe, valued, and inspired to explore their own potential. If just one of my students finds in a book what I have found in Stephen King’s stories, a sense of belonging, wonder, or courage — then I will know I have done something meaningful. My love of reading is not just a hobby; it is the foundation for the kind of teacher I want to be and the impact I hope to make.

"I have learned that the purpose of teaching is to bring the student to his or her sense of his or her own presence." - Professor Harold Bloom, Possessed by Memory These words by Professor Bloom resonate with me as a future educator because they capture the essence of what I believe education was always meant to be: not the filling of a vessel, but the awakening of a soul. To me, a "sense of one's own presence" means realizing that you matter in this world, not just in what you produce but in who you are. It means understanding that you belong inside the classroom and outside of it. For students with special needs, this awareness might not come to them automatically. Too often, they are taught to adapt, accommodate, or assimilate, rather than to authentically be themselves.I am passionate about becoming a teacher because I want to be the guiding light that helps students recognize their own brilliance. My mission is to cultivate learning spaces that are not only safe but empowering, where students know they can advocate for their stories, their voices, and their dreams. I plan to achieve this goal of mine by fostering creative expression through various outlets like the arts, assistive technology, and sensory exploration. There are multiple ways special needs students communicate and I am determined to find ways to help them speak their truth. I also think that it is highly crucial that teachers celebrate progress along with performance. Growth will look different for every child and I want to be able to honor the small victories along with the big ones. Lastly, I plan on becoming an advocate for education that adapts to all students because everyone deserves access to accessible education. Every student out there is waiting to be discovered: I will ask, listen, and learn from them before I teach them. I want every student, no matter their challenge or label, to leave my classroom with a better sense of who they are and that their presence matters. Because it does. Always. A Light in the Labyrinth: A Tale of Becoming Once upon a time, in a land of winding paths and shadowy whispers, lived a young apprentice named Kyra. Her heart burned with a quiet fire as her dream was to help lost children find their way home. Not home to a place, but home to themselves. In the center of this whimsical land was a vast labyrinth where children with unique gifts often wandered. Some moved without words, some thought in pictures, others seemed to dance rather than walk in this mystical area. But because their gifts were different from the rest of the kingdoms people, they were misunderstood and labeled as "strange" or "broken." Kyra, still mastering that art of teaching, entered the labyrinth not with a map but with a lantern lit by compassion and empathy. She sat with a young boy who built towers from silence, and together they built a bridge of understanding. Further into the labyrinth, she sang with a girl whose voice had gotten locked inside the colors of the kingdom. With each connection that Kyra made, she noticed small changes happening in the labyrinth. This wasn't happening because she changed the children but because they were finally being seen and heard. In time, Kyra become more than a guide to them, she became a guardian of light for the children in the labyrinth. Reminding each child that they too carry their own light. Even though the labyrinth still exists, it is no longer a place people fear or avoid. It became a place of becoming. And so, Kyra found her long lost purpose: not by leaving others out of the dark, but by helping them find courage to shine from within.

As a child, I was always aware of my Native American heritage, but it didn't feel like a living, breathing aspect of who I was. Through songs, recipes, and occasional stories my grandmother passed down, my family constantly discussed our ancestors and shared bits and pieces of our culture. However, I felt more and more disconnected from my heritage the farther we moved away from our tribe because my life became centered around other things. One day, my grandmother sat me down and told me a story that altered my perspective. She described a period of extreme hardship for our people, including how they faced land loss and relocation. Additionally, she emphasized the critical role women played, which moved me. They served as the community's storytellers and became the center of activity. Women taught us how to be resilient and face obstacles head-on, to always keep the bigger picture in mind. As my grandma spoke, I saw that she was proud to call these women ancestors, and I realized that she was sharing more than just our history; she was speaking about my future, too. Something in me was awoken by her story. I started to understand that being Native American was more than just the blood running through my veins. It meant continuing to pass down this strong and wise heritage no matter how it was tried to be suppressed in the past. I came to see that, although I might not have grown up surrounded by Native customs, I still carry the accomplishments and strengths of those who lived before me. My grandma has always encouraged us to go to powwows and interact with the elders of our tribe to better understand our history. I actively sought out opportunities to learn more about my people and our culture every chance I got. Even though it seemed that my Native roots were so far away, I still found myself motivated by them. The stories I heard served as the foundation for what I want to do with my life. I came to realize that I want to pay back to my community by becoming an advocate for change and supporting young children who might feel alienated like I did at one point. This scholarship gives me the chance to carry on with that journey and acquire the knowledge and abilities I need to become the influence I desire. In addition to achieving career success, I want to give back to the Native communities by helping establish equal access to education and create venues and workshops where tales like the one my grandmother's can be heard and appreciated. Where young women and men can learn about the value of speaking up for themselves and others. Even though I may not be as fully impacted by my Native American heritage as others, I understand and acknowledge the impact that stories can have on many generations. I hope the stories I have heard serve as a guide to help me change the world.

One of the most profound struggles I have faced, and continue to rise above, has been navigating the challenges of perfectionism. Growing up, I was always praised for my academic achievements, organization skills, and leadership abilities. While these traits are beneficial in many ways, they also led me to believe that I had to be flawless at everything I attempted. Whether it was my schoolwork, my responsibilities at home, or even my interactions with others, I felt an overwhelming sense to always be "perfect" and never make mistakes. For a long time, I believed that the more I achieved, the more I would excel and be valuable to those around me. But the reality is that feeling became suffocating. I started to avoid challenges in the fear of failing. When I made mistakes, I would be my own worst critic and start believing I wasn't good enough. This constant pressure began to take a toll on my mental and physical health, especially in high school when expectations are at their highest. A specific moment comes to mind during my junior year of high school when I was sure everything would come crashing down. I had been juggling multiple AP classes, extracurriculars, and home responsibilities, and everything was becoming too much. I ended up missing a deadline for a really big project and was so ashamed that I could barely function because I thought I would fail. This was a turning point for me because I realized I had been chasing an unattainable goal of perfection. I came to understand that failure and mistakes are about of the learning process. This realization didn't happen overnight and is still a work in progress at times, but it began to shift my mindset. Since then, I have started to approach challenges with curiosity instead of fear. Instead of viewing my mistakes are a form of inadequacy, I now view them as opportunities for growth. I have also become more comfortable with asking for help when I encounter something I've never done. These shifts have encouraged me to become more resilient and have given me experiences that can shape me into a better leader, student, and future educator. My journey has ultimately led me to this career path in education. As a teacher, I want to create a classroom where students know they can make mistakes without feeling shame or embarrassment. I want them to understand that they don't have to be perfect to be worthy of success and that true learning happens when we step out of our comfort zones. When we can embrace imperfection, I believe that's when we unlock our true potential as individuals. I hope, as a teacher, to instill the idea that progress is better than perfection.

From as early as I can remember, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. Growing up as the eldest of four daughters, I often found myself in a teaching role, helping my siblings with homework, explaining new concepts, and guiding them through challenges, both in and outside of school. While it began as a simple act of being a big sister, these moments sparked a deeper passion for teaching and making a positive impact on young minds. My experiences have fueled my desire to pursue a career in education, specifically early childhood and elementary education. One of the main reasons I am passionate about teaching is the way education can shape minds and transform lives. I was lucky enough to have had a teacher who helped me understand the power of learning and encouraged me to achieve great things. Mrs. Compton, my fourth-grade teacher, changed my life in many ways that I still carry with me to this day. I had always been a quiet, shy kid, and being the new student at the beginning of the year can be scary. I started to fall behind in my reading comprehension, which caused me to become even more withdrawn. I felt like I was falling behind, and I wouldn't be able to catch up with my peers. Mrs. Compton saw something in me that I didn't see myself. She took the time to sit with me after class and patiently support me in areas I was struggling with. Her kind encouragement boosted my confidence, and not only did my reading skills improve, but I became more social and outgoing in class. This firsthand experience instilled the idea that teaching is more than passing down knowledge; it's about supporting and nurturing young minds so they can grow up to become confident and capable individuals. As I pursue my career in education, I hope to give the same positive impact on students lives as Mrs. Compton had on me. I want to be the teacher who listens, encourages, and inspires children for the better. I strive to create an environment where students feel excited to learn but also feel safe to explore, ask questions, and make mistakes. I know teaching won't always be easy, but I believe that the rewards outweigh the challenges, and I'm eager to inspire the lives of our next generation. Throughout my life, my experiences have shown my the deepest impacts that teachers can have on a child's life. I choose this career path because I believe in the power of education and how it can transform lives. It would be an honor to be apart of this transformative process for our future generations

I am the eldest of four children, and growing up in a busy household has taught me the value of patience, empathy, and responsibility. These qualities have helped shape my dream of becoming an elementary school teacher, specifically in Kindergarten. As a child, I was typically the one to help my younger siblings with their school work as my parents were busy working to provide for us. Seeing the look on their faces once they got the correct answer gave me a sense of joy but also sparked my passion for helping others learn and grow. My journey towards a career in education has been shaped by many positive influences. My grandmother, a devoted early childhood educator, was a constant source of inspiration. I would watch her prepare lessons and activities, work with students, and I noticed the immediate impact she had on their lives. By observing her, I witnessed the responsibility and joy that come from teaching young minds. My grandma could make any child light up with the smallest encouragement and saw firsthand how important it is to create an environment where students feel safe and valued. I want to make a positive impact on this world through education by being a teacher who fosters not only intellectual growth but also social and emotional development. Kindergarten is a crucial stage in a child's life because this is when they start to learn the foundational skills that they will carry over for years. During this time, they begin to understand the importance of cooperation, problem-solving and how to navigate the world around them. I dream to be the educator that encourages her students to be curious and creative while teaching children that they can achieve anything if they set their minds to it. Having been a caregiver and role model for my siblings, I have learned that each child is unique, with their own interests, strengths, and weaknesses. Experiencing this has helped me develop a patient and nurturing approach that understands each child will learn at their own pace. Furthermore, being the eldest has taught me how to communicate effectively, whether it's explaining a concept or resolving conflict. As a future kindergarten teacher, I plan to create an environment where all students feel comfortable exploring new ideas, asking questions, and, most importantly, making mistakes. I firmly believe that fostering a positive and supportive learning space is key to helping children grow as students and individuals. Additionally, I am passionate about creating an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated. Each student will bring a different set of experiences and perspectives that I hope to embrace and celebrate. I aim to help children develop a sense of belonging and respect for others, laying the foundation for a more compassionate and understanding world. I am thrilled to embark on a career in education where I can make a lasting impact on young lives and prepare them for success, both inside and outside of school.

1. Being the first in my family to earn a college degree will be an important accomplishment of mine. I am proud to represent that my family's struggles did not hold me back. Growing up, I watched as my parents worked harder than others because they lacked a college degree, which motivated me to pursue higher education to make my dreams come true. Their hard work would mean something if it meant that their children all went to get a college degree. I will be setting an example for my sisters that they can do it and also pave a path for my children. This degree will be dedicated to the sacrifices they made and the dreams they put on hold to ensure that I could live mine. 2. I'm currently pursuing my bachelor's degree in elementary education at Ottawa University, as it grants me direct access to impact young minds. I have always been inspired by teachers because they educate and inspire the new generation of leaders and attending a university gets me a step closer to my dream. College allows me the chance to deepen my understanding and acquire the knowledge and experience needed to create the positive influence I desire. I am particularly passionate about elementary education because these are the years when kids are building their foundational skills, which will shape their learning for the rest of their lives. I believe studying this field will affect how I can contribute to my community and create an environment children are excited to enter every day. 3. A few long-term goals I have are to get my masters in elementary education, mentor future educators, and open learning centers. By obtaining a master's, I am furthering my knowledge to become a highly effective classroom teacher, This is important because I aim to create a class that is positive and inclusive, where everyone feels welcomed and respected. This increases students' academic progress because they tend to be more engaged and motivated when in class. I believe mentoring future educators is crucial because they need the experience to teach the next generation. Sharing experiences and tips can help prepare incoming teachers for situations that might not be common. Lastly, I believe that opening up a learning center for struggling students can greatly impact a child's academic life. These centers can provide additional support for students who might need extra help outside a regular classroom.

I have chosen to get my degree in Elementary Education because I am passionate about nurturing young minds and teaching them the foundational skills they need for life. Since I was a kid, I have always been inspired by the teachers who made learning fun and engaging, and where I felt respected. I want to provide the same atmosphere for my students, one that not only wants academic growth but also supports social, emotional, and personal growth. Early education is important in shaping children's lives and how they view the world around them. The impact I want to create as an elementary teacher helps students form identities, learn common core objectives, and develop social skills. By creating a class where students feel valued and respected, I hope to plant a love for learning that stays well after they graduate. I want my students to see the value in both their successes and mistakes, and understand that challenges are put a learning. One key goal I have as a future educator is to promote inclusion and fairness. I want all my students to have the option of succeeding, regardless of their background, that's why I plan to use differentiated learning. By differentiating my teaching methods to cater to students' specific needs, I can help all students no matter where they might be struggling. Children must know that they are seen and valued in the classroom because this sets the stage for academic and personal growth. On a personal level, my motivation to become a teacher comes from my own experiences in school. Growing up, I had teachers who never made me feel supported or included in their class and I always hated going to school. Their influence has stayed with me and motivated me to want to give back what I never received. Additionally, I want my students to walk into class with a smile on their faces knowing that today will be a good day. My students will feel empowered to excel and have all the necessary skills needed for life. As I work towards my profession, I am dedicated to continuous learning. I know the value of staying up to date on current teaching methods to provide the best experiences for students. I aim to build relationships with families and communities, to ensure that everyone works together to ensure the best learning.

1. My belief about education is that it is an important tool that can be used for growth, empowerment, and cognitive development. Education is more than just memorizing facts but about fostering curiosity and creativity. I believe that education is meant to help students gain various skills, meaningfully contribute to their community, and follow their passions. Inclusivity and equality are important values to me. Regardless of ethnicity or background, every student deserves access to quality education that meets their required needs. Education should honor cultural diversity and I intend to create an environment that reflects these beliefs and values. My background is Native American, which has influenced my desire to connect with my students. Storytelling is an important part of our culture and can help teach a variety of lessons, which is why I plan to use it for learning. It can help students feel connected to the material and provide a deeper understanding. 2. The most effective methods I have seen from teachers include collaborative learning, hands-on activities, and differentiated instruction. These methods work with students to provide optimal learning and allow the best experiences for the students. For example, differentiated instruction ensures all students receive the proper support for them to succeed in the classroom. I plan to implement these strategies in my class by offering various activities that align with different needs a student might have. To make sure that my class is both culturally and linguistically responsive, I will make sure that the content is diverse and relates to students' backgrounds allowing them to share personal stories and experiences. This connection hopefully will make them more engaged and willing to learn while creating an environment that promotes respect for all. 3. I aim to make a positive impact on my student's lives, both academically and socially. My goal, academically, is to help them gain the skills and knowledge they need to be successful and be able to apply what they have learned to real-world scenarios. Socially, I want my students to be able to foster a growth mindset. When they realize mistakes are about of the learning process, they are more likely to try again instead of giving up completely. To ensure my students are confident and successful learners, I will make it a priority to build a supportive and positive classroom where mistakes don't mean failure. I will encourage self-reflection and provide students the opportunity to set goals along with celebrating their success, big or small. I also will incorporate social-emotional learning into the curriculum to help students build and regulate their emotions which is a skill that is required throughout life. 4. I believe professional growth is continuous. An effective educator is constantly looking for opportunities to learn and adapt to the technologies around them. I am dedicated to staying up-to-date on the advancements in teaching and regularly reflecting on my teaching practices. Signing up for workshops, classes, or conferences can help improve my teaching strategies. I also will focus on acknowledging my student's strengths and weaknesses, and adjust my teaching accordingly for their success. By building these relationships, students can see that I am committed to their learning and do want to see them succeed, motivating them to want to succeed. I aim to be an efficient educator who advocates for her students, especially those who face obstacles and challenges.

My Native American background has played a significant role in shaping both my educational journey and my future ambitions. My Native heritage has impacted my values of community, protecting traditions, and respecting the environment. These values have affected how I outline my future and how I go about my education. Starting at an early age, I learned that storytelling was important when it came to preserving knowledge through the generations. My cousin, Jimmy, used to tell us stories about our ancestors and their traditions, and by him doing so I grew a desire to learn more about my Native roots, such as the history and culture that might have been forgotten. The knowledge I acquired through school, independent research, and asking others in my tribe helped me gain a better understanding of the struggles and accomplishments of my people. This understanding has given me a passion for defending Native American rights and protecting their land. Native Americans have also faced countless challenges in the academic world, like being underrepresented and marginalized, which has affected my view. Learning about these challenges has encouraged me to advocate for change and break down barriers for any future Native American student, especially if they are my future students. My future goal (and hope) is that all students in my community will be able to succeed by making access to equal education possible for all. Despite these obstacles, my Native American heritage has inspired my love for education and the need to advocate for people who can't themselves. I realized that I have the chance to make a difference in my community by connecting these two ideas. For example, career goals include campaigning for policy reforms so that all Native communities have the necessary tools for appropriate learning and development for their kids. Furthermore, my background has influenced my view on success and achievements. Different from the traditional definition of success often viewed as individual accomplishments, my culture prioritizes the importance of connections and relationships. I don't only dream of a successful career but more importantly I want to be a part of something bigger than me. I want to be able to motivate people into caring for the environment since Native cultures have emphasized the importance of living among nature. My Native background has been a constant influence in deciding my future goals and aspirations. It has given me a sense of self and a purpose in life to advocate for equality and change. As I go through my career, I am dedicated to using my voice to create an inclusive and supportive environment where all students feel welcome regardless of background or ethnicity.