Balancing Dreams and Responsibilities: My Journey as a Working Mother Balancing work, caregiving, and education is no easy feat, yet it has become the foundation of my journey. My path has been shaped by the challenges and triumphs of motherhood, the demands of full-time work, and the pursuit of a lifelong dream. Through these experiences, I have come to understand that determination, sacrifice, and perseverance are not just qualities I possess—they are the very essence of my story. The Turning Point: Finding My Purpose For years, I worked tirelessly to provide for my family, always prioritizing their well-being over my own aspirations. Yet, when my third child was born, something shifted within me. I realized that while I was ensuring my children had everything they needed, I had set aside my own dreams. That day, I made the life-changing decision to go back to school and finally pursue my passion for teaching. Now, as a mother of four children under the age of ten, a full-time employee, and a full-time student, my days are filled with endless responsibilities. There are moments of exhaustion, moments where doubt creeps in, and moments where the weight of it all feels overwhelming. However, amidst the chaos, there is also purpose, fulfillment, and the knowledge that I am building a future not just for myself, but for my family. The Challenges of Balance Balancing work, caregiving, and education has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life. There are nights when sleep feels like a luxury, mornings when I wake up before the sun to prepare for work, and evenings spent helping with homework while studying for my own exams. Time management has become a skill I have mastered out of necessity. Every hour is accounted for, every responsibility carefully balanced between being a mother, a wife, a student, and an employee. I have had to make sacrifices—missing social gatherings, cutting back on personal time, and pushing through exhaustion—all to stay on track for my goal of graduating in 2026. Yet, even in the midst of these challenges, I would not trade this journey for anything. Every struggle reminds me why I started, why I keep going, and why this dream is worth every obstacle I face. How My Experience Shapes My Career Goals Through this journey, I have learned the true meaning of perseverance and resilience—qualities that will define me as an educator. I understand firsthand the struggles that many students face, whether it's balancing responsibilities, overcoming obstacles, or believing in their ability to succeed. Because of my experience, I will bring empathy, encouragement, and understanding into my future classroom. I will teach my students that no challenge is too great, no dream is too distant, and no goal is unattainable. My story is a testament to the power of persistence, and I hope to inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. Conclusion: Strength Through Struggle My journey as a working mother has shaped me in ways I never could have imagined. Every late night, every sacrificed moment, and every difficult decision has strengthened my resolve to become an educator who uplifts and empowers others. I am not just pursuing a degree; I am building a legacy for my children—one that teaches them the importance of determination, passion, and lifelong learning. No matter how difficult this road may be, I will continue to push forward, because I refuse to let my dreams wait any longer.

A Calling to Inspire: My Journey Toward Teaching Teaching is more than a profession—it is a calling, a commitment to shaping minds, fostering growth, and inspiring the next generation to embrace their potential. My decision to pursue a career in teaching stems from a deep desire to make a meaningful impact, to be the kind of educator who not only teaches but also empowers, encourages, and uplifts. The Inspiration Behind My Journey Throughout my life, I have encountered educators who left a lasting impression on me—not because of their expertise alone, but because of their ability to see each student as an individual, deserving of encouragement and guidance. These teachers helped me recognize my own strengths, ignited my curiosity for learning, and made me feel seen in a way that extended beyond the classroom. Their influence planted a seed in me—a realization that learning thrives in an environment where students feel valued. I knew that one day, I wanted to replicate that same sense of belonging for my own students. The Power of Education Education is one of the most transformative forces in society. It has the power to break barriers, spark creativity, and equip individuals with the tools to build a brighter future. However, education is not just about textbooks and lectures; it is about connection, understanding, and instilling confidence in every learner. I am pursuing a career in teaching because I want to create a space where students feel safe to explore, ask questions, and develop a love for learning—a space where they understand that their voices matter, that their dreams are valid, and that they are capable of achieving greatness. My Vision as a Future Educator As an educator, I will strive to: Foster an Inclusive and Supportive Classroom – Every child deserves to feel heard and respected. I will create an environment where students know that their struggles do not define them but rather strengthen them. Encourage Curiosity and Growth – Instead of teaching students what to think, I want to teach them how to think—how to embrace challenges, analyze problems, and seek knowledge with enthusiasm. Inspire a Love for Learning – Education should be engaging and meaningful. Through creative lessons, interactive discussions, and personalized learning approaches, I will make sure that every student discovers the joy of exploration. Lead with Empathy and Encouragement – Success is not measured solely by grades but by the confidence and resilience a student gains along the way. My goal is to be a mentor, not just an instructor, ensuring that my students feel supported in their journeys. Conclusion: A Commitment to Change Teaching is not simply about providing knowledge—it is about igniting potential, cultivating self-confidence, and instilling the belief that every student can succeed. It is about changing lives, one lesson at a time. As I step into this career, I carry the lessons I have learned from the remarkable educators who shaped me, and I hope to pass those lessons forward. My mission is clear: to inspire, to uplift, and to ensure that every student who walks into my classroom leaves knowing that they are capable, valuable, and full of promise.

Teaching is more than just delivering lessons—it’s about helping students discover their strengths, embrace their individuality, and build the confidence to navigate the world. Professor Harold Bloom once said, "I have learned that the purpose of teaching is to bring the student to his or her sense of his or her own presence," and this philosophy resonates deeply with me. To truly experience one’s presence is to recognize and embrace one’s unique identity, abilities, and self-worth. For students with special needs, achieving this sense of presence can be challenging, often clouded by obstacles, self-doubt, and societal limitations. My calling as a special education teacher is to help them realize they are more than their struggles—they are individuals with talent, courage, and endless potential. The Inspiration Behind My Passion My journey toward special education began with a profound realization: learning is not just about mastering subjects—it’s about feeling seen, understood, and capable. I was fortunate enough to have mentors who nurtured my strengths and encouraged me beyond academics, helping me develop a sense of identity. Yet, I also witnessed the disparities in education—students who felt invisible, who believed their challenges defined their worth, who struggled to see their value beyond their limitations. I knew then that I wanted to be the kind of teacher who looks beyond the surface, who listens, who uplifts, and who reminds every student that their voice matters. My Mission: Fostering Confidence and Growth To guide my students toward experiencing their sense of presence, I will: Create an Inclusive and Supportive Environment – Every child deserves to feel safe, respected, and valued. My classroom will be built on trust, kindness, and encouragement, where students know that mistakes are simply steps toward growth. Embrace Individualized Learning – No two students learn the same way. By adapting lessons to their strengths—whether through visual aids, interactive activities, or real-world applications—I will empower them to engage with learning in ways that resonate with them. Encourage Self-Expression and Autonomy – Through art, storytelling, music, and movement, I will provide opportunities for students to express themselves freely. By allowing them to make choices in their learning, I will reinforce the idea that their thoughts, ideas, and emotions matter. Cultivate a Growth Mindset – Struggles do not define a student’s worth. I will help my students understand that persistence and effort are just as important as skill, encouraging them to approach challenges with confidence rather than fear. A Fairy Tale: The Light Within Once upon a time, in a kingdom where stars shone only for those who believed in themselves, there was a village where some children struggled to find their own light. In this village lived a teacher named Virma, whose heart was filled with the desire to help every child see the brilliance within them. One evening, the villagers gathered for the annual Lantern Festival, where children were asked to ignite their lanterns to illuminate the night sky. However, many hesitated—afraid their lanterns wouldn’t shine brightly enough. Among them was Leo, a boy who had always doubted his abilities. “I’m not smart enough,” he whispered, staring at his unlit lantern. Virma knelt beside him, holding a small flame. “Your light is already here,” she said gently. “You just have to trust yourself enough to let it shine.” She taught the children how to ignite their lanterns with courage, reminding them that their worth was never measured by perfection but by perseverance. One by one, lanterns lit up—transforming the sky into a breathtaking display. The children laughed, realizing that their presence was powerful, their light undeniable. From that night on, the village was never the same. The children stood taller, spoke with confidence, and pursued learning with excitement, knowing that their light would never fade. Conclusion: The Heart of Teaching Like Virma in the fairy tale, my goal as a special education teacher is to help students recognize their inner light. Through encouragement, tailored learning experiences, and an unwavering belief in their abilities, I will ensure that every student feels seen, valued, and empowered. Teaching is not simply about imparting knowledge—it is about fostering a love for learning, instilling resilience, and guiding students toward confidence in themselves. My greatest hope is that, just as my mentors once inspired me, I will inspire the next generation to dream bigger, reach higher, and believe in their own brilliance.

Education has always been more than just a profession—it is a calling, a force that has the power to shape lives, break barriers, and create opportunities. My inspiration to become a teacher from the deep belief that every child deserves a mentor who sees their potential, fosters their curiosity, and encourages them to rise above their circumstances. Growing up, I had the privilege of learning from remarkable educators who did just that for me. Their unwavering support ignited my passion for learning, and I knew that one day, I wanted to pass that same light onto others. My journey toward becoming a teacher is rooted in the profound impact of one individual—my own teacher, whose guidance shaped my confidence and academic growth. She not only taught the curriculum but also taught compassion, perseverance, and resilience. She saw beyond test scores and homework assignments and focused on my strengths, ensuring that I never felt unseen or incapable. Her classroom was a haven, where encouragement was constant and failure was never final. In moments of doubt, she reassured me that learning was a process, and setbacks were merely stepping stones toward success. I vividly remember a difficult time when I struggled with a subject, convinced I would never grasp its complexities. Instead of allowing me to surrender to discouragement, she sat with me, patiently explained concepts, and reminded me that effort was just as valuable as talent. That moment, among many others, instilled in me a determination to extend that same patience and support to future generations. As I embark on my journey as an educator, I recognize that my own experiences serve as an important tool to inspire others. I plan to use the lessons I have learned—both from my own teachers and from personal challenges—to build a classroom environment that fosters curiosity, inclusivity, and resilience. In today's world, many students face obstacles that go beyond textbooks. Some struggle academically, while others endure hardships that impact their ability to learn. I want to be the kind of teacher who sees beyond the surface, who understands that every student has a unique story that shapes their approach to education. By sharing my own experiences—of overcoming struggles, embracing challenges, and learning the value of persistence—I hope to instill confidence in my students. I also believe in the power of representation. Many young learners, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, need role models who prove that success is attainable despite adversity. I want my presence in the classroom to serve as a testament that where you come from does not determine where you will go. Beyond words, I aspire to inspire through action. Engagement, encouragement, and innovation will be at the heart of my teaching approach. I want to develop lessons that ignite curiosity rather than simply demand memorization. By incorporating interactive and collaborative learning methods, I aim to make education exciting and accessible for every learner, regardless of their academic standing. Empathy will also be a cornerstone of my teaching philosophy. Every student will know that they are valued, heard, and capable. Whether they struggle in a subject or excel effortlessly, my classroom will be a safe space where growth is nurtured, and learning is celebrated. I plan to support students beyond the curriculum, helping them recognize their strengths and encouraging them to pursue their dreams. I will remind them that their voices matter, their potential is limitless, and their dreams are worth chasing. Education is more than a career—it is an opportunity to shape futures, empower minds, and leave a lasting impact. My greatest hope is that, just as my teachers once inspired me, I will inspire the next generation to dream bigger, reach higher, and believe in themselves. Teaching is not simply about imparting knowledge—it is about fostering a love for learning, encouraging perseverance, and helping students see their own brilliance. And that is the legacy I want to build.