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2023 - As a continuation of my commitment to education and personal growth, I embarked on a new academic pursuit by starting the MAT program at American University (AU). This step represents a dedication to enhancing my knowledge and skills as an educator, setting the stage for further contributions to the field of education in the years to come.

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In 2022, my educational journey took a significant step forward as I welcomed a new mentor, Leslie Hurd, into my teaching life. Leslie brought with her an impressive 13-year tenure in the field, marked by a wealth of knowledge and a profound understanding of the Reggio Emilia teaching approach. This fortuitous mentorship expanded my horizons and deepened my appreciation for the principles of this innovative educational method, enriching my own teaching philosophy and empowering me to be a more effective educator.

This experience underscored the immense value of having supportive teaching peers and mentors in one's professional life. Leslie's guidance not only illuminated the intricacies of the Reggio Emilia approach but also demonstrated how teachers can greatly benefit from collaborative assistance. Her flexible and open-minded approach to teaching, combined with her wealth of experience and knowledge, served as a beacon of inspiration.

Through this mentorship, I discovered that the effectiveness of a teacher can be significantly altered when they have the support and wisdom of colleagues who are willing to share their insights. The exchange of ideas and the willingness to collaborate can lead to transformative changes in the classroom, benefiting both educators and students alike. It reaffirmed the importance of fostering a learning community where teachers can draw from each other's experiences and expertise to continually enhance their teaching methods and better serve the needs of their students.

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During my tenure at TEECC School, a significant turning point occurred in my journey through education. The school's director recognized my untapped potential, leading to a rather rapid promotion that reshaped my role within the institution from assistant to teacher. This transition held particular significance as it saw me assume the responsibility of becoming the permanent teacher for a 3-year-old class. This change brought with it a host of unique challenges and rewards inherent in early childhood education, marking a pivotal moment in my career where I fully embraced the opportunities and responsibilities of nurturing young minds and shaping their educational foundations. I also for the first time began to view myself truly as a teacher rather than merely someone with knowledge of a certain skill.

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In 2021, I found myself at a crossroads, seeking an escape from the relentless challenges posed by my retail job. It was during this time that I made an unexpected career move by joining the team at Temple Emanuel Early Childhood Education Center. This decision wasn't initially fueled by a burning passion for education, but rather by mere opportunity and the fact that I had previous experience as an art teacher. The choice was driven by a combination of necessity and opportunity, as I grappled with the desire for change and the chance to utilize my skills in a different setting.

Little did I know that this seemingly pragmatic decision would lay the foundation for a profoundly meaningful journey in the field of education. As I immersed myself in this new role, I discovered an unexpected passion for teaching and nurturing young minds. The classroom became a place of inspiration, growth, and transformation, not just for my students but for myself as well.

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In the midst of the chaos and uncertainty that defined 2020, a remarkable development took shape within my educational journey. It was during this turbulent period that I crossed paths with my current partner, and this encounter held a significance that extended well beyond the personal sphere.

Having a supportive and understanding partner felt like an entirely foreign concept at the time. For far too long, I had navigated educational challenges, personal struggles, and the aftermath of a toxic relationship largely on my own. The presence of someone who genuinely cared, not just about my professional pursuits but about my overall well-being, was a revelation.

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The year 2020 was marked by a series of global events that had a profound impact on society as a whole. The COVID-19 pandemic, the tragic death of George Floyd, and the subsequent Black Lives Matter protests brought to light systemic issues and ignited social justice movements. Additionally, I faced personal challenges as I was furloughed from my retail job, highlighting the economic strain that many individuals experienced during this unprecedented year.

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In 2019, the turmoil within my abusive relationship reached its zenith, leading to a harrowing and violent altercation that shattered the fragile peace. During that dark chapter, my partner, overwhelmed by anger and desperation, made chilling threats of self-harm, casting a long shadow of fear and manipulation over the ordeal. The forced end to this toxic relationship brought a bittersweet mixture of relief and apprehension, offering a daunting but necessary opportunity for me to reclaim my autonomy, though marred by the haunting memories of that fateful moment.

Reflecting on the tumultuous journey, I emerged with invaluable lessons about the importance of self-worth, setting boundaries, and recognizing the signs of abuse. I learned that no relationship is worth sacrificing one's well-being, and the experience, however painful, ultimately fueled my determination to prioritize my mental and emotional health moving forward.

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A significant step toward healing and self-improvement occurred in 2018 when I voluntarily started therapy for the first time, having been coerced or forced into attending by my parents previously. Therapy provided a safe space to address the emotional scars of my past and work towards a healthier future.

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Despite the challenges posed by my abusive relationship, I began teaching art classes for Grumbacher, offering a glimmer of professional growth and personal solace. Despite personal turmoil, this role allowed me to share my love for art with students and make a positive impact on their creative journeys. While at the time I was more motivated by the art, teaching became a refuge from the relationship's turmoil, highlighting the profound influence of education on both teachers and students, underscoring the power of resilience and the transformative potential of art in even the darkest times.

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In a moment of academic achievement and artistic excellence, I graduated with honors in 2015. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Fine Arts, marking the culmination of my undergraduate journey with a strong academic foundation in the arts. This significant milestone highlighted my dedication to creative expression and set the stage for the next chapters in my educational and professional endeavors.

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In 2006, my mother made a pivotal decision that exposed me to a world of educational advantages. She enrolled me in an advanced placement tutoring program tailored for high-achieving students, introducing me to high school-level concepts well ahead of my peers. Little did I know, this experience would not only shape my academic journey but also shed light on the unequal access to educational resources.

One of the most transformative aspects of this program was the meticulous training I received in essay writing. The course heavily focused on constructing well-structured and eloquent essays. This early exposure was a revelation, as it granted me access to a set of unwritten rules about what constituted a "good" paper in the eyes of academic professionals.

Retrospectively, I can see the glaring disparity in access to such crucial knowledge and training between myself and other students. Many students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and communities of color, were not afforded the same opportunities. They were left grappling with an uneven playing field, lacking access to the "right" way to communicate ideas and navigate the academic landscape effectively.

The privilege I gained through this tutoring program underscored the systemic inequalities that persist within our education system. It highlighted the importance of addressing these disparities and leveling the educational playing field for all students. My experiences from 2006 continue to remind me of the urgent need to promote equitable access to quality education, ensuring that no one is left behind due to circumstances beyond their control.

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Unfortunately, my life took a dark turn in 2014 when I entered a damaging relationship with an abusive partner who grappled with drug addiction. This individual, initially appearing as an alternative musician with a "bad boy" persona, had a profoundly negative impact on my personal well-being and career aspirations. It became a period characterized by emotional manipulation and neglect, where my own needs and ambitions were systematically suffocated and rendered insignificant. It was challenging for me to prioritize my own needs and goals.

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In 2013, my life felt like it was hitting a new peak, filled with memorable moments that continue to shape my identity and aspirations. This year stands out as one of the best in my memory. I found unwavering support from a close-knit community of fellow homosexuals, fostering a sense of belonging that was both heartwarming and empowering. My creative spark ignited, flourishing in my art classes, and I reveled in the music of the time, forming lasting connections with friends who remain cherished companions to this day. It was a year of remarkable personal growth, self-discovery, and pivotal experiences that have left an indelible mark on my life's journey. Whether it was achieving academically, reaching personal milestones, or forging new and enduring friendships, 2013 was a year of undeniable positivity that continues to resonate with me.

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As I settled into Hofstra University, I realized that my true passion lay in Fine Art, prompting a change in my major from Drama. This shift allowed me to delve deeper into my artistic pursuits and refine my creative talents.

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Graduating from high school, I faced a crucial decision regarding my college education. While I had a strong desire to study in New York City, financial constraints led me to choose Hofstra University, which offered me a substantial merit scholarship. The decision to prioritize financial stability over location was a defining moment in my academic journey. However I was fortunate to have received significant financial assistance from both the school and my parents, allowing me to avoid needing student loans.

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During my high school years, I took a significant step in my personal life by openly acknowledging my homosexuality. Instead of making a formal announcement to my family, I opted for a quieter approach, allowing them to gather clues from my increasingly open dating life. While this protective process of coming out to my family was ultimately met with understanding and acceptance, it was not without its complexities. Among my peers, I encountered prejudices and biases. At times, some boys would hurl hurtful slurs like "faggot" or engage in exclusionary behavior, serving as stark reminders of the prevailing societal norms and misconceptions about being Gay. These experiences, though hurtful, did not significantly impact my own schoolwork, but I recognize the potential harm that similar situations could pose for other students. The constant state of danger or fear resulting from such bullying and discrimination could be deeply distracting, potentially hindering their ability to focus on their studies and achieve their academic potential. This awareness fueled my commitment to fostering a more inclusive and accepting environment in my own teaching for the well-being of all students who might be facing similar challenges.

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Beginning my high school journey at Sandy Spring Friends School marked a profound shift in my educational experience. Upon entering this community, I was embraced by an environment that wholeheartedly celebrated diverse learning styles. This inclusivity was particularly significant for me as I grappled with my ADHD.

Sandy Spring Friends School celebrated individuality and accommodated diverse needs. As a neurodivergent student, it allowed me to excel academically while also nurturing my artistic talents through various creative classes like Ceramics, Photography, Drama, Video Production, and Drawing. These courses became not just outlets for my creativity but also tools to manage my impulsive behavior.

Yet, while I thrived in this environment, it is essential to recognize the privilege I had in accessing it. For many neurodiverse students, the financial barriers to such supportive educational environments can be insurmountable. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for equitable access to inclusive learning spaces. The transformative power of a school that celebrates diverse learning styles should be available to all, regardless of their financial circumstances, to ensure that no student is left behind in their educational journey.

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In 2003, my parents made the choice to relocate our family to Rockville, MD. While this decision wasn't driven solely by one factor, a key motivation behind it was to reduce the distance between our home and my new middle school as well as my school friends. Up until that point, I had been the only child commuting from the city to these schools, and the move aimed to ease the daily commute and promote a stronger sense of belonging among my classmates. However, this shift came with unintended consequences, notably a significant reduction in the diversity I was exposed to. Most of my school friends were of Caucasian descent, and the move from the suburbs led to limited access to the friends of color I had known from the city, resulting in a noticeable homogenization of my daily environment.

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Dissatisfaction with the shrinking class size and new teaching staff prompted my mother to make a pivotal decision. I left Seneca Academy, bidding farewell to my classmates and teachers, and transitioned to middle school at the Barnesville School. It marked a period of adjustment and new beginnings in my educational journey.

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In fifth grade, Seneca Academy underwent a challenging transformation when our class size dwindled to just seven students. Instead providing individualized attention as one might imagine, the school made the decision to merge our class with both the fourth and sixth grades who were also suffering from dwindling class sizes. While this may have been intended to create a diverse and engaging learning environment, it placed an enormous burden on our teacher, Ms. Killduff.

Ms. Killduff was a new teacher at the time, and this merger required her to juggle the unique needs of three different age groups while attempting to tailor her lessons to accommodate this disparate mix. The consequences were palpable, as our classroom became a stressful environment, not just for Ms. Killduff but for all of us. It was an incredibly challenging situation that made it increasingly difficult for each student to receive the attention and support they required and be met with material appropriate for them.

This experience was a stark reminder of the toll that teacher burnout and the shortage of qualified educators can take on the quality of education. Ms. Killduff, although dedicated and passionate, faced an almost insurmountable task. It also left students like us feeling lost in a sea of competing needs, which disrupted our educational experience and made us acutely aware of the challenges within the education system. This reflection underscores the importance of supporting both teachers and students, ensuring that the learning environment is conducive to growth and success for all.

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As my educational journey continued to unfold, I encountered a significant hurdle in maintaining focus and attention in the classroom. These challenges eventually led to a crucial diagnosis: ADHD. This diagnosis, while initially daunting, turned out to be a pivotal moment in my educational trajectory. It highlighted the importance of recognizing and addressing individual learning needs.

I consider myself fortunate in this regard. Attending a private school with dedicated and invested teachers, along with a smaller class size, proved to be instrumental in identifying and addressing my learning challenges. In a more intimate setting, I didn't get lost in the sea of other students' needs, allowing my teachers to provide personalized support and interventions. This level of attention made a profound difference in my ability to manage and overcome the hurdles posed by ADHD.

Additionally, access to ADHD medication played a crucial role in my journey. I'm aware that such medications can be prohibitively expensive for many individuals, underscoring the importance of equitable access to resources and support for students facing similar challenges. My experience highlighted the significance of recognizing and accommodating diverse learning needs within the education system, ensuring that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

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During this year, an intriguing incident occurred at school that would shape my perceptions. I remember experimenting with costumes from the school's costume bin and wearing girls' outfits, simply to provided entertainment to my peers. However, this led my parents to seek therapy to delve into my gender identity. At such a young age, it left me questioning the intentions of therapy and of the adults in my class, as I perceived it as purely source of amusement for my peers not an exploration of identity.

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By the time I turned six, Seneca Academy had constructed a brand-new school building, and I eagerly embarked on my Kindergarten journey. It was a moment of excitement as I stepped into a more formal education setting, ready to absorb knowledge and explore the world beyond.

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At the age of two, my educational journey commenced with my enrollment in Preschool at the Circle School, a precursor to Seneca Academy. This early step laid the foundation for my future learning and growth. However, a notable aspect of this journey was the choice my parents made regarding my education. While residing in Washington, D.C., they opted to transport me daily to Darnestown, Maryland, to attend this school. It was a significant choice with far-reaching implications.

The decision to send me to a private school outside our immediate community spoke to the complexity of school choice, particularly for families in urban areas like D.C. While my parents made this choice with my best interests in mind, it also highlighted the privilege that some families have in making such decisions. Not everyone had the financial means to access alternatives to the public school system, and this choice underscored the educational disparities that many residents of color in D.C. faced. The geographic and financial barriers to quality education can significantly impact a child's educational journey, and my own experience served as a reminder of the broader challenges within the educational landscape.

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I was born December 10th 1992 at Sibley Hospital in Washington, DC, a city rich with history and diversity. My parents were settling into their life in a modest 2-bedroom apartment in northwest DC, creating a nurturing environment for my early years, filled with love and care.