I live in Long Beach where I like to sail, play ice hockey, play pickleball, read, and participate in book clubs. My wife Karen and I have two grown children named Joe and Skylar. Skylar who lives in Bellingham, Washington, is married to Tom and they have 2 children, our grandchildren, Fisher and Heidi. Joe is an artist and he lives with us.

I live in southern California and have so my whole life. Some of my hobbies include being active exercising, walking my dog, and going on hikes/going to the beach.

In my free time you will find me or probably not, as I hike and mountain bike or camp in the great outdoors way off the grid up in the mountains. I also enjoy most anything outdoors and in movement such as surfing, walking my dog, playing with my kids at a park or in the neighborhood. I read when not reading for school or work and enjoy writing.

I am husband to Danielle and a father to Maya and Dylan. I am so grateful for them and their support of me while I am pursuing this career. They are also some of my best teachers as they help me with my patience and management of young people and their learning.

I would like to publish one day it has always been a personal goal or wish for myself that culminated early in my life. I hope to fulfill this dream when I am not always in school or during summers off as a teacher in the future.

I am excited for our collaborative learning and what your perspectives, insights, and academic expertises will offer to my growth and thus serve my future students as well. Thank you in advance for your participation and willingness to meet with our class.

Outside of my academic and professional pursuits, I have a deep passion for creativity. Whether it's drawing, crafting keychains, or making pipeline flowers. I also love exploring Los Angeles—especially discovering new parks and hunting for hidden gems at local record stores.

My name is Berenice Leyva. I am working towards earning my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. I am currently student teaching in a Kindergarten classroom! I love working with children and supporting them in every way, especially their educational growth! I have been helping in classrooms since I was a teenager.  The experiences I cherish the most are when I volunteer in my mom's classroom. As a middle schooler, I learned to love teaching and have fun with the students, also because I was 9 years older than them at the time, haha! Attending Dominguez Hills has also brought me amazing experiences in classrooms where I learned how different communities teach their students; the learning never stops!

I have always lived in the South Bay, where I like to spend quality time with my friends and family. I also love to read! I enjoy recreational reading the most; I think that academic learning is crucial and necessary. I love listening to music; I could not go a day without it. I also enjoy taking walks.

Let me tell something about my country. we have some natural beauties in our country. They are world's largest sea beach Cox's Bazar, world's largest mangrove forest Sundarban,Chittagong Hill Tracts,one and only coral island Saint Martin Island. We also have numerous rivers as Bangladesh is called "The land of rivers".

I hold a bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, which I completed in 2023 at AUW. Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Arts in Education at AUW to further my passion for learning and teaching.

Before joining AUW for my undergraduate studies, I co-founded an organization now known as Eagle Global Transformation, which focuses on providing education for kindergarten and primary school levels. After completing my bachelor's degree, I initially planned to rejoin the organization but was unable to do so due to unforeseen circumstances. Instead, I worked as a Human Resources Coordinator at JL World Company before returning to AUW to continue my academic journey.

Currently, I am at AUW for my MA program. My classmates come from diverse backgrounds, each contributing unique perspectives to our learning environment. We all share a passion for education and personal growth, creating an inspiring and enriching academic community. I’m proud and grateful to be part of this vibrant group.

In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, reading, creating videos, engaging in photoshoots, and traveling.

I come from a wonderful and supportive family. My mother is a housewife, and my father is a shopkeeper. They have always encouraged me to pursue my passion for education and community service. I have three sisters: Nasreen, who is a midwife; Zahra, a project manager for Free Turn in Afghanistan; and Noria, an undergraduate student at the Asian University for Women. My two younger brothers, Ali Reza and Zaker, are both school students, with Ali Reza also being a football player.

In my free time, I enjoy reading books, watching movies, and listening to music. I also love spending time with my friends, whether it's going to the park or simply enjoying good conversations.

Looking ahead, my ultimate goal is to establish my own education-focused NGO. I believe that education is the foundation for change, and through my experiences, I have seen firsthand the challenges that many children—especially girls—face in accessing quality education. My dream is to create an organization that provides learning opportunities for those who need them most, empowering future generations to build a better world.

As I continue my academic journey, I am excited to learn from others, exchange ideas, and grow as an educator. I look forward to the opportunities ahead and to making a lasting impact in the field of education.

I allocate most of my free time to sports, such as volleyball, running, fitness, and cycling. Because of my interest in sports, I joined the Running Club, Volleyball Club, and Dance Club at AUW. Additionally, I participate in the weekly cycling program. Fitness is an integral part of my morning routine, which I never neglect.

Furthermore, due to my interest in writing, I attended the Writing for Friendship program for two semesters, and I regularly read storybooks and news articles online. My fascination with photography led me to join a photography program, which further fueled my passion for capturing moments.

Every weekend, my friends and I watch movies, host parties, and dance to many songs. I am also an active member of the AUW Dance Club. Traveling is another passion of mine, especially visiting historical places in different countries.

All of these activities have become an integral part of my life. These hobbies not only reflect my personality but also create some of my most cherished moments.

My name is Maryam Mirzaee, and I am currently pursuing my MA in Education at the Asian University for Women (AUW). I completed my undergraduate degree in Public Policy & Administration from Kabul University, Afghanistan, several years ago. Over the years, I’ve worked in both profit and nonprofit organizations, including the House of Representatives, but nothing has brought me as much joy as my volunteer work with the Citizen Covenant initiative, where I served as a trainer for local communities.

Outside of my professional work, I have a variety of passions that define me. I love playing the piano, traveling, fashion designing, and engaging in strategic games like chess. One of my favorite things about traveling is exploring countries where culture and progress come together, such as France, Italy, and Turkey, each offering a beautiful blend of history, tradition, and modern innovation. I’m also a huge animal lover, especially when it comes to dogs. One of my favorite pastimes is stargazing with a telescope, as it allows me to connect with the vastness of the universe in a way that feels deeply personal. I also enjoy reading real-life stories of individuals I know, finding inspiration in their unique journeys.

Through all of these experiences, I strive to make meaningful connections and keep learning, growing, and contributing to the world around me.

After moving back to Bangladesh, I continued my education and completed my Bachelor’s in

English Language and Literature from the International Islamic University Chittagong in 2024. I’m currently pursuing my Master’s in Education at the Asian University for Women.

I have two sisters, Bushra and Easra, and a little brother, Ahmed, who’s 4 years old. My dad is a businessman in Oman, and my mom is a housewife.

Sports have always been a big part of my life. I loved athletics and basketball in school, and I’m still very much into fitness, working out regularly at the gym. In my free time, I also enjoy watching series and movies.

I’ve always had a passion for education and have worked as a private tutor for students in grades 4 to 10, helping them to organize their studies and improve their grades.

I’ve also been involved in various volunteering activities that have given me a lot of hands-on experiences. I worked with Aritrika, a non governmental organization in Bangladesh focused on climate change and environmental sustainability, where I helped design educational content for a course aimed at 25,000 students. I also volunteered with the English Language and Literary Society (ELLS) as an organizing secretary and Debate secretary at my university, organizing events and workshops for English Literature students. Additionally, I was a part of AIESEC, where I assisted in managing internship opportunities for young people aiming to kickstart their careers.

I’ve also had the chance to work as a Teaching Assistant for Dr. Mohib Ullah at my university, supporting him in the delivery and administration of his courses.

My goal is to work with an educational development NGO, focusing on creating and implementing modern teaching methods that incorporate technological advancements. I believe education should continuously evolve, and I’m excited about the possibility of contributing to this transformation.

I am Tahira Tazreen, and I am from Chattogram (also known as Chittagong), Bangladesh. I have just started my master of arts in Education in Asian University for Women, which is interestingly, my workplace as well for last 3 years. I have been teaching English and Social Studies in Pre Undergraduate Program in AUW. Earlier, I also graduated from the same university with a major in Economics. I have been actively engaged in teaching since my undergraduate years. Although I have gained experience of teaching people coming from diverse background ranging from slum areas to socially privileged kids to refugee women, my most favorite (and most challenging) experience was teaching visually impaired students as a member of a community club. The more I got involved in teaching, the more I came across people of different age, needs, nationality, social background etc. and the more I became enthusiastic to learn the art of teaching, and that is why I am here! My dream is to keep working for establishing a world where education will not be a luxury to any individual.

I am a mother to my beloved son Mus'aab Abdullah Zaeem who is 2.5 years old now, and wife to Muhammad Tanveer Raihan who is a civil engineer. I am grateful to my husband for always motivating me to pursue my dreams, and I am very lucky to have my son in my life who has been turned into my biggest inspiration to do anything in life since the day he was born! My father is a retired professor of Chemistry, and my mother is a homemaker. I am indebted to my parents for whoever I am today. In my free time (or even sometimes amidst my busy schedule), I love to write. I wrote few stories for my son, but I have not published any of those yet. I also love to travel, sing and take photographs of nature.

The city I live in is located in the south east corner of the country, and is called 'the port city of Bangladesh'. Economically, Culturally, and politically, the city has been one of the major parts of the history of Bangladesh as well as Southeast Asia for centuries. My mother language is Bangla - a language which has been achieved through bloodshed in 1952 and laid the foundation of 'International Mother Language Day' which has now become a celebration of language, diversity, and love for motherland all over the world.

My name is Marissa Arriola. I am currently working towards earning my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. I am currently student teaching in a 5th-grade classroom. I am an after-school program leader for the same school where I am a student teacher. I have been an after-school program leader for six years. I was also a physical education teacher for TK through 8th grade. I love working with kids and seeing them grow with knowledge and curiosity. 

In my free time, I love reading and painting. I also love running! I have done 5ks, 10ks, 10 milers, and two half marathons. I  love hanging out with my family and friends. I love watching Formula One and Indy car! I love traveling to different places as well.

My name is Yesenia Perez. I am a CSUDH graduate who earned a B.A. in Liberal Studies with a focus in special education. I am currently in the multiple subject credential program and I am completing my student teaching in a Kindergarten classroom. My background in education is that I worked as a Teacher Assistant in an elementary school and I worked as a Math Tutor in a Middle School. I also work for the City of Carson every summer at a Kids Summer Camp. I have always wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. I am definitely drawn to the younger grades like K-2 but would be happy with any grade.

A little about me, I am a mother to 4 children. Two boys ages 3 and 7, and two girls ages 14 and 16. My family is everything to me. On my free time I like to relax and binge watch some of my favorite TV shows, practice the bass, or just be home with my kids and husband. I currently reside in East LA although I grew up in the South Bay area. Something about me is that I have an earring collection. I have over 200 pairs that range from story book characters, to food items, animals, instruments, holidays, mainly school related,etc; I love dressing up through earrings and fun shirts.

My name is Iris Rincon. I am currently working towards earning my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. I am a CSUDH graduate in Liberal Studies. My background in education is working as a teaching assistant in a 2nd-Grade classroom. I am currently student teaching in a 1st-Grade classroom. I have always been inspired by my first-grade teacher, whose kindness, patience, and passion for teaching left a lasting impact on me. Now, as her student teacher, I strive to emulate the same qualities that made her classroom such a nurturing space for learning and growth. My motivation to become an educator stems from wanting to create that same environment for my students and help them realize their potential, just as she did for me.

A little bit about me, during my free time I love taking long walks with my dog and hiking. I love hanging out with my loved ones and being outdoors. I love rewatching the Tv show The Office and watching movies. I love traveling to different places as well. I recently went to Hawaii in Summer 24' and it was such an amazing and beautiful experience that I wish I could relive every time!

When I’m not in the classroom, I’m probably planning my next trip. Traveling is my escape—whether it’s a big adventure or just a quick getaway, I love experiencing new places, food, and cultures.

Life is busy, chaotic, and full of surprises, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Just taking it all in and enjoying the ride.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy walking dogs, cooking and baking, and watching shows in my downtime. I’m also passionate about spending quality time with my family, as they are my biggest source of support and joy. I look forward to continuing my journey in education and making a positive impact on my students' lives.

I am a first-generation college graduate from West Covina, California, with Sudanese and French roots. Currently, I am student teaching in a 3rd-grade classroom in the La Mirada Norwalk School District, and I previously worked for the Compton School District. My passion for teaching comes from my belief that representation matters. Growing up, I didn’t see many male educators who looked like me, and I want to change that. I am committed to increasing the 2% of Black male educators in the U.S. because it’s crucial for our communities to see men of color in these roles.

Outside of teaching, I love to travel. I ended last year in Cancun and kicked off the new year with a trip to Chicago. I consider myself a wannabe foodie, a sports fan, and a collector of sneakers and hats. I enjoy spending time with my family and fraternity brothers, and where we focus on community service. I also run a YouTube channel “Motivational Mondays”. This year I am dabbling into entrepreneurship, by creating a candle business. A fun fact about me; I was featured on CSUDH’s website and even created a welcome video that went viral. Im excited for this journey and wish you all the best in yours!

Aside from being a student at CSUDH and a student teacher I spend my time working on the weekends, spending time with family, and going on runs at the beach. 

I am studying for my Master’s degree in Art in Education at Asian University for Women. Before this, I completed my bachelor’s degree in Geoscience at Bamyan University two years ago. During my studies, I was also a member of mountaineering group. Aside that I was teaching and tutoring for children which developed a passion for further education.

I am truly grateful to my parents—my father, who is now 78, and my mother, 70—for always supporting me and encouraging me to move forward in life.

In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, reading, writing my daily memories, and hiking.  Currently, Bangladesh, with its diverse culture, nature beauty and kind people, has given me a new home, and I hope to create more experiences and beautiful memories here.

Wishing happiness and success to all of you!😊

My name is Alicia Thoman. This is my last semester in the credential program at California State University Dominguez Hills. I am currently student teaching in a classroom. I have been working many years to become a teacher. I love being in the outdoors and exploring my surroundings. This helps me focus on what is most important in my life. I feel like I have many things to prove to others in my family that I can accomplish a lifetime goal even with difficulties in my life.

Throughout my journey, I've had the opportunity to work in various capacities, including internships, volunteer roles, and employment. Notably, I've had two consecutive years of teaching experience at a school and course in Pakistan, fostering my passion for education.

Academic Pursuits

Receiving a scholarship to pursue my master's degree has been a dream. I'm enrolled as an MA in Education student at the esteemed Asian University for Women. Being part of a community that comprises think tanks and young leaders is an absolute honor.

Personal Interests

In my free time, I enjoy a variety of activities, including:

- Running

- Painting

- Learning new languages

- Playing volleyball

These hobbies allow me to express myself creatively, stay active, and continuously challenge myself.

Before my sutdnet teaching I have worked with children in multiple capacities on and off since I was 13. I would babysit children at my church and on weekends as needed. in 2016 I started working at the YMCA which is a structured after school program. In 2020 I left my job there and began working for Torrance Unified School District in the health office as a Health Assistant. I would help children if they got hurt or were feeling sick, Ice packs and bandaids are lifesavers for elementary students.

Outside of my education/professional life I enjoy playing online games such as World of Warcraft. I also enjoy getting outside and enjoying theme parks, national parks and over the southern california sunshine with my boyfriend.

I have three dogs and one daughter who is my everything! In my free time I enjoy watching movies, visiting petting zoos, going on walks, and trying new food!

My name is Claribel De Los Santos and I am working on my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. I earned my a B.A in Political Science at UCI. I am currently an intern in a 6th grade classroom at Vista Charter Middle school and I'm teaching math and science. Prior to being an intern I've been a TA, long term substitute, and worked summers at the Science Center Summer Camp. I have only worked with middle school students and older. I have also only taught science and math related courses to students.

I live in the southeastern part of LA county. I love to travel, hike, read, and spend time with my family. I have cat name Floresita that is 8 hears old and is very grumpy. Good luck to everyone this semester.

My name is Gabriel Soria and I graduated with my BA from CSUDH in Spring 2022. I am pursuing my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential and Master's degree. I am a District Intern, allowing me to teach my very own class! This is my second year teaching third grade. My first year was very tough. However, this year I am applying everything that I learned during my first year of teaching and it has been smooth sailing.

Aside from my career and academics, I enjoy going for a long walk outdoors. I love going on road trips to destress. I enjoy the little things of life like going for a cup of coffee, walking by the beach, or going to downtown Santa Monica with good company.

In this photo I wore my brother's uniform as a Halloween costume for my school's parade.

In my free time, i enjoy spending time with family and friends, trying new coffee shops, watching the sunset, watching movies/tv shows, listening to music, playing with my 2 dogs (chancho and Papo), and traveling, I recently went to the Philippines the summer of 2024 and stayed 2 months which was so relaxing and memorable, and I cant wait to go again to explore a new island.

My name is Cheyenne Figueroa and I’m from Redondo Beach, CA. I attended Redondo Beach United School District from kindergarten through twelfth grade. I’m 26 years old and I’m a mother to three beautiful children. My oldest son Cassius is 7 years old, my middle child’s name is Calii and she’s 5 years old, and my youngest is a boy and he’s 6 months old. I’m currently a teacher for Los Angeles Unified School District teaching third grade. I chose this career in education because I’m so passionate about children. Everything I do, typically revolves around children. Since becoming a teacher, I have met so many bright young children and it’s something I look forward to doing for the rest of my life and am passionate about. I originally got my BA in Psychology from CSUDH and started working for LA County DCFS. I hated that job but knew that I wanted to continue making an impact in children’s lives and that’s when I decided to try teaching. Since I started, I have loved it. I plan on finishing the multiple-subject program and then enrolling into the MA in Education: Curriculum & Instruction right after.

On my free time, I like to spend time with my children. We do things like go to the beach, go to the park, and ride our bikes around my neighborhood. I’m looking forward to this last semester in the program and getting to know the new faces I haven’t had the pleasure of have courses with just yet.

My name is Michelle Plata. My identity and goals are the core reasons I am passionate about teaching.

So who am I?

I am an older sister, a partner, a dog mom, and a friend.

Any free time I have I prefer to spend with my loved ones or my dog.

I am a CSU Dominguez Hills alumni; I graduated in May 2024 with my B.A. in Liberal Studies. I am currently enrolled in the Multiple Subject Teaching Credential program. I have been so fortunate to be placed in a 2nd-grade classroom with 30 wonderful students and a fantastic mentor teacher who has been a teacher for 25 years.

I have been involved in the educational world for 5 years now, throughout this time, I was a teacher aide during my last year of high school as part of my child development class, I have completed a 450-hour tutor/teacher assistant fellowship with Mrs. Cuevas 3rd grade class, I have worked in a transitional kinder class with Ms. Sanchez in the district I grew up in Paramount Unified as an instructional assistant.

Aside from my educational experience, I am an explorer, adventurer, food, show, sports, and nature enthusiast. I love learning and discovering everything. From a very young age, I loved! being on YouTube and learning about how others live their lives, learning about space and the world around us that exists outside of our immediate access.

My curiosity and passion for learning and exploring have taken me to the mountains, the desert, and the ocean. The beauty of nature and meeting new people in these moments is what drives me to want to grow in my hobbies, my learning, and my relationships.

So how does this tie into my passion for teaching?

My goal is to be an educator who can connect with my students and their families and create access to learning that incorporates their passions. Eventually, I want to make a difference in the politics of education but that is a plan for the future.

I believe that every individual is born with a unique spark that is ignited when they have the opportunity to explore their interests. My own curiosity and exploration drive me to want to create an equitable environment that is safe and accessible for many to grow in and discover. I know learning can be fun, and unfortunately, not all classrooms nurture that for developing minds, but I hope mine will.

Hello everyone!

My name is Soma Goswami, and I come from a humble tea garden community in Sylhet, Bangladesh. Life in the tea gardens is filled with challenges, where families often survive on less than $2 a day. Access to education, healthcare, and basic resources remains limited, making it difficult for many to break the cycle of poverty. Yet, this environment has shaped my desire to work toward community development and to actively contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

I am fortunate to be part of a family of eight, where my father is the sole provider. I have two younger sisters and a younger brother, and I’m proud to say that I am the first in my family to graduate with an undergraduate degree. In December 2024, I completed my degree in Public Health from the Asian University for Women (AUW), a milestone that I hold dear to my heart.

Driven by my passion for social change, I serve in various leadership roles:

• As the Senior Vice President of UTSA, a non-profit organization that supports tea community students in their educational journey.

• As the Secretary of Social Welfare & Development in UNYSAB, where I work on initiatives aimed at improving the lives of underserved communities.

Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Education at AUW, and I am excited for the opportunities it will bring. I hope to deepen my understanding and skills to create positive, lasting change in the future.

Outside of my studies and social work, I enjoy being active. I love playing badminton, cricket, football, handball, and basketball. Music also plays a special part in my life, and I take great joy in singing. Gardening, especially growing flowers, is another passion of mine that brings peace and beauty into my daily life.

I believe in the power of education and community action to transform lives, and I am eager to continue learning, growing, and contributing to the well-being of my community and beyond. The journey ahead excites me, and I am committed to making a meaningful impact on the world around me.

Hailing from Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, home to the world’s longest sea beach..I am a researcher, educator, and environmental activist passionate about the intersection of public health and environmental science. My work delves into climate change, water quality, and disaster resilience, with research contributions at some international organizations icddr,b and the Center for Climate Change and Environmental Health. I have my own organisation named GreenFlow. I work to creat awarness regarding menstrual health among underprivileged women. I am a former UN Millennium fellow. I work as an instructor for physically vulnerable children. I also served as a TA for few of my major courses at my University.

Beyond academia, I am an old soul in modern technology. I grew up reading Greek mythology, ancient history. I am a forever admirer of any ancient architecture. I am a devoted admirer of Pablo Neruda, Fidel Castro, and Van Gogh. I believe in the power of words, art, and revolution to shape the world.

"You can cut all the flowers, but you cannot keep Spring from coming." – Pablo Neruda.

Like the ever returning Spring, my passion for learning, teaching, and creating impact never fades.

Education:

• Bachelor of Leadership
  Creighton University, Omaha, USA

Experience:

Co-Founder & Coordinator – NHHWDO

2018 – Present

• Co-founded and managed an NGO focused on education and community development in Afghanistan.

• Led programs, coordinated local projects, and built partnerships to support local welfare initiatives.

GEL Teacher & Center Coordinator

Lal-Ghor Province, Herat Province Afghanistan | 2018 – 2022

• Taught and facilitated learning for underserved communities.

• Managed the day-to-day operations of the educational center, ensuring effective use of resources.

Peacebuilding Workshop Participant

Delhi, India | 2018 & 2019

• Attended workshops to learn and contribute to conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts.

Key Skills:

• Leadership & Team Management

• Community Engagement & Education

• Creative Problem Solving

• Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution

• Adaptability & Resilience

  Currently, I am doing my master's degree at an Asian university for women in Bangladesh.

  thank you

For a short time, I volunteered as a school counselor at Sayed Al-Shuhada Elementary School. I also worked as an intern and later as an executive manager in the Human Rights and Gender Integration Directorate of the Ministry of Defense.

Currently, I am pursuing my master's degree at AUW. I hope that everyone has the opportunity to choose their education, job, and religion.

This is Monira Gharjisatani, and I am from Afghanistan. I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts (MA) degree at the Asian University for Women. I previously earned my bachelor’s degree in law from a private university in Afghanistan in 2022.

With over five years of professional experience, I have worked in management roles within both governmental and private organizations, developing strong leadership, administrative, and problem-solving skills.

In addition to my academic and professional pursuits, I have a deep passion for art, particularly drawing. In my free time, I enjoy sketching, especially eyes, as I find them uniquely expressive and captivating.

Drawing from my education, professional experience, and artistic pursuits, I am committed to making a meaningful impact in the legal field, creative arts, and the advancement of education, fostering positive change through knowledge, leadership, and innovation.

~ Be with your P's: Prayer, Priority, Passion, Patience, Positivity, Peace, Paradise ~ #pwrites

Hi. My name is Syeda Tapannun Sharmila. A big name, I know. But you can call me Sharmila or Tapa. I was born and brought up in Chittagong, Bangladesh. I am currently pursuing my Master of Art in Education at Asian University for Women. However, I completed my undergrad from University of Chittagong majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Shifting from life science to education was my take on putting some life to my education. My undergrad journey was not a smooth one which made me realize how important it is to make education accessible, enjoyable and most importantly, relatable. In addition to that, since my childhood, I have always wanted to be a teacher. The notion of being called “professor" by students whom I can teach and share my learning experience with has always ignited my passion. Hence, the moment I got to know about this program available in my hometown, I immediately applied. I dream to be an educator who will focus on mental health and education, educational psychology, and how to integrate mental health in primary level education.

I have worked with two educational institutions, both of which were startups by students from public and private universities in Bangladesh. One of the organizations, Tinkers Technology Ltd, worked with Bengali children who live abroad. Their goal was to teach the kids Bangla effectively. I worked in the content creation team and used to create the class materials. The other organization I worked with functioned as a research consultancy for people who are new in the field. I used to work in the content writing team. Amongst all my work experiences, the one thing I'm extremely proud of is my own startup, Poodles. Poodles is an online shop where I make art wearable. I started Poodles by selling t-shirts on which I used to doodle and paint. Then it expanded into a handmade jewelry store. You can find the Facebook page and check out the things I created.

Apart from being a student and an entrepreneur, I'm also a poet. Usually I prefer calling myself a poetry enthusiast since I don't have any published book but I have prepared two manuscripts, one in English and the other in my mother language, Bangla, for two poetry books that I dream of publishing one day. Along with this, I also am an artist. Again, I prefer being called an art enthusiast since I haven't had any formal training. I started painting at a very young age. Before I could read, I used to “write" by drawing pictures. As I grew older, I found myself experimenting with abstract artworks. I have several original pieces that I wish to share here one day.

To give you a gist of my personal life, I am a family oriented person. My parents, specially my mother, are my best cheerleaders in everything I've done so far and their support is always with me no matter how hard the situation is. Recently I married my best friend. He always supports me in all my academic and creative endeavors. I am a cat mom as well. My cat is three years old and responds to the name Buddu.

I envision a world where education is accessible to each and every corner of this entire world. I want to break the stigma of mental health issues by incorporating awareness about it via education. One thing I believe with all my heart is that creativity is everywhere; we just have to extend our hand, expand our vision and look closely. Eventually we will find the passion to work on something creative. Ending this with my favorite quote by Sylvia Plath, “The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt”.

My name is Lesley Madera. I attended CSUDH for my undergrad and received my bachelor degrees in child development with a concentration in counseling and family services. I grew up in San Pedro but and currently living in Redondo Beach with my husband and super cute dog. I am the youngest and only girl in my family. I have two older brothers and two loving parents. I am currently doing my student observation at Birney Elementary in Redondo Beach. I am so lucky because I've been with the same class their entire school year. My kiddos are 4th graders and all of them are super amazing!

On my free time, I love going to the beach, walking my dog, getting my nails done. I am a really organized person so I love making lists and checking things off. I take my sleep very seriously and if I could be in bed and asleep by 8pm every night, I would be.

Some fun things about me: I love to travel, and my favorite places I’ve visited are Hawaii and Puerto Vallarta. If there’s a beach, I’m there! I’m also a big foodie and enjoy finding new places to eat and explore different coffee spots. I’m the second oldest of four kids, which has definitely shaped my love for working with others as well as strengthened my patience.

I am pershing my Master's of Art's in Education at Asian University for Women.I completed my undergrad from National University majoring in Statistics.As a science student i always thought that i will finish M.Sc. But we have no idea about God's plan for us. Now, i am happy and thankful for whatever i have gotten. In last two years, i loved teaching as a teacher which inspired me to do this MA program. I see my future in this Profession.

Besides study i am doing a virtual internship at Youth School for Social Entrepreneurs (YSSE). I am an intern of Admin and HR Department. It is helping me to enrich my skills. I want to have more option for my future. I think we don’t need to set boundaries for learning and gaining knowledge. It’s exciting to strat or try something new. I want to fulfill my dreams and have no regrets. Thank you.

My name is Habiba, and I come from the Rohingya community of Myanmar. I grew up in a small village called Tha Dwet Taung of Rakhine State where access to quality education is very limited. Due to persecution and violence, I was forced to flee my home and have been living in the refugee camps of Bangladesh since 2017. Despite the challenges, I remained determined to pursue my education, becoming the first daughter to graduate in my family and village. I recently completed my Bachelor’s in Public Health from Asian University for Women (AUW) and am now pursuing a Master of Education. Alongside my studies, I am working with the Rohingya Women Rights Union, as I strongly believe that education is the key to transforming lives and empowering communities. I am deeply passionate about addressing health issues, refugee rights, education, and community development. Through my education and experiences, I hope to break barriers and create lasting change in the lives of my community.

Throughout my academic journey, I have worked in various organisations and actively involved in various extracurricular activities and works that have shaped my leadership, confidence, communication, and professional skills. At AUW, I worked as a Teaching Assistant for Rohingya students, a Research Assistant under professor, and a Residential Assistant, which helped me develop leadership, communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and organizational skills. I have also completed a six month Google certificate course, a three-month leadership, peer collaboration program, as well as was a member of AUW Public Health Club, where I collaborated with peers to organize health awareness campaigns and workshops. My internship at Epic in Chittagong also further expanded my practical skills, which is related to health and well-being for everyone.

Before joining AUW, I worked as an instructor at Mercy Refugee House, Plan International, and the Women’s Peace Network, where I taught Math, English, Science, and Burmese for about two years. These all experiences have not only enhanced my knowledge but also have strengthened my ability to manage teams, complete tasks efficiently, and work collaboratively toward meaningful goals.

In my free time, I love reading books, writing poems, stories, learning new things, and engaging in meaningful discussions. As I see these can create impact, and I hope to use mine to bring change and hope to my people. My poetry reflects the struggles, resilience, and dreams of the Rohingya community and some of my poems have been published in the Rohingya Vision, and The Art Garden Rohingya, and Unspoken Magazine. Ultimately, I believe that education is more than just learning. It is the key to freedom, dignity, and a better future for all.

Thank you!

Work-study

I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Education at the Asian University for Women (AUW), where I also serve as a Math Faculty member at the Pre-Undergraduate level. I have had the privilege of working at AUW for the past two and a half years and am presently enrolled in a work-study scholarship program. My academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, majoring in Economics, and double-minoring in Math and Finance, from which I graduated with high honours as part of the AUW Class of 2021, Helianthus. AUW has been a cornerstone of my academic and professional life, evolving from an undergraduate student to a teaching assistant across various Math courses, then a Math Faculty member, and now a graduate student. In addition to my academic and teaching roles, I have actively participated in several extra-curricular that led me to become the founder and President of AUW Culinary Chef Club. I was also the AUW Student Government Treasurer to flex my Math skills. Back in previous Fall'23 semester, I have also served as the Club Advisor for AUW Culinary Chef Club. To me, the university is nothing short of a second home.

My work profile also includes occasionally working as a Freelance Graphic Designer at my company, Grafiqe, or running errands as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Style Station. It is my freshly launched small pop up store, located just opposite to my MA class campus.

Motherhood

Being the mother to my beautiful one-year old daughter, Falak, has transformed me in ways I never imagined. Her dreamy eyes, like twin stars in the night sky, ignite within me a fire to dream bigger and aim higher. As a proud "girl mom," I feel like an unstoppable force, carving a path of strength and resilience for her to follow. My stitches have become my best friends, reminders of the sacrifices I've made, each one a symbol of my unwavering strength. Every pain, every challenge I face, feels insignificant in comparison to the immense joy she brings into my life. Falak, my piece of heaven, is my guiding light, and every challenge I face pales in comparison to the love I feel for her. I strive to become the best mother she could look upto!

Celebrations

Celebrating my journey, every step, every stumble, every success, fills me with immense gratitude and pride. Both my successes and failures have shaped who I am today, with each setback serving as a lesson and each triumph a testament to my resilience. Congratulations to all of us for reaching this milestone and for turning our dreams into reality!

This is Taslima, and I am from Northern Rakhine (Arakan) State in Myanmar. I am the oldest and only girl in my family, with three younger brothers. I was born in a small village in the underprivileged town called Rathedaung, where access to basic education was limited. As I belong to the Rohingya community, one of the most persecuted and vulnerable community in Rakhine State, I experienced the hardships of being an internally displaced person (IDP) at the age of 10, from 2012 to 2017 in Myanmar. After that, since 2017, I have been living my life in the Refugee Camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, which made pursuing my studies even more challenging. Despite those obstacles, my family and I never gave up on my education and worked tirelessly, sacrificed so much to get the best education possible.

In Summer 2024, I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Public Health from the Asian University for Women (AUW), becoming the first daughter in my family, village, and town to complete higher education. I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Education at AUW, while also working as a Coordinator for Rohingya students, particularly those in General Studies (GS) Program. Additionally, I serve as the Women’s Director for the Rathedaung Society for Peace and Development (RSPD), where I am dedicated to empowering individuals by providing education, skills, and necessary resources for personal and social development. I believe that education is the most powerful tool to help my vulnerable community to break the cycle of poverty and injustice.

During my undergraduate journey at AUW, I had done a variety of courses and participated extracurricular activities that helped me to build confidence, improve my critical thinking, and enhance my leadership skills. I also completed an internship at Epic Healthcare in Chittagong, Bangladesh, based on well-being and hospital management. Beyond academics, I worked as a Research Assistant with AUW professors and camp-based organizations, and I participated in the Aspire Leaders Program through online and Peer Collaboration program. Since 2021, I have had the privilege of serving as a Tutor and Teaching Assistant for GS students at AUW. 

After completing my undergraduate, I went to camp and taught for a few months at a school in the Rohingya Refugee Camp, funded by Turkey, which further fueled my desire to educate and make a positive impact in my community. Prior to joining AUW, I volunteered as a Team Leader for two years with the humanitarian organization Food for Hungry/Medical Team International (FH/MTI) and the Joint Rohingya Response Program (JRRP) in the camp. I also taught at a Private Community High School in the Rohingya Refugee Camp in Bangladesh. 

In my free time, I enjoy teaching students, including my siblings online, and assist my juniors at AUW with their studies. I also like to spend time with my family. 

Experiencing numerous challenges in my educational journey and witnessing the struggles of my community, particularly regarding education, made me aspire to become an expert in the development of education, to create a meaningful learning environment and make a positive impact on the lives of the persecuted Rohingya minority. As I still continue my academic journey, I hope to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills, strategies and educational theory, to create a meaningful learning environment and make a positive impact on the lives of my persecuted Rohingya community.

Thank you!

 I love to read, listen to music, and watch movies and series. Our librarian used to wonder how I could borrow so many books and finish reading them! 😂 Recently I started cooking. I am somewhat good at cooking and sometimes I post my food on Instagram! If I ever cook for you, be sure that I love you :3   

That’s about it. 

bye-bye 🙂

I’m a curious soul who finds joy in the little things—whether it’s savouring a rich mocha, travelling the world to taste its culinary wonders, or spending quality time with my beloved cat, Ruby. Animals hold a special place in my heart; I believe they deserve more kindness than humans often give, and I strive to return the love and compassion I receive in life. For me, there’s no hierarchy in professions or people—everyone is equal, and every role is worthy of respect.

One of the most transformative moments of my life was the birth of my baby brother, a reminder of the beauty of new beginnings. My journey has taken me from completing my A-levels in KSA to embracing the vibrant culture of Bangladesh, a shift that humbled me and deepened my appreciation for diversity. These experiences have shaped my belief in creating a world where every child, regardless of their background, has access to education—especially for the gifted, the underprivileged, and the slum children of Bangladesh.

I am deeply committed to breaking societal norms, particularly in patriarchal societies where marriage is often seen as the ultimate goal for women. My passion lies in empowering underprivileged girls through education, challenging stereotypes, and creating opportunities for them to thrive. With a Bachelor’s in English Language and Literature and experience as a teaching assistant, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of inclusive education.

My dream is to work at the intersection of technology and global education policies, designing curricula that uplift marginalized communities and foster equity. I believe education is the key to unlocking potential, and I’m determined to create a world where every child, especially girls, can dream beyond societal constraints.Lastly but most importantly, I possess a vision of a world where education is accessible to all, regardless of class or gender.

Join me on this journey as I share my thoughts, experiences, and dreams. Let’s collaborate, inspire, and work towards a world where every individual has the opportunity to shine. Together, we can create a future that’s brighter, fairer, and full of possibilities! Warmly,
Tanbin Irfat ✨

I am minowash from Afghanistan. The youngest daughter of a family of nine people. I completed my bachelor in Geology and mines faculty(oil and gas engineering department) when my country was in a bad situation.I am the last batch of girls who graduated after the change of system in our country. And after us Education for girls was completly banned. righ now I started MA in Asian University for womens In Bangladesh. With the hope to I would be able to do Something for the girls of my homeland.

Also I'm passionate about cooking and I amd a great cooker, exploring new thing, traveling, Reading.

I am passionate about education and social change, and I have experience working as a teacher for four years. I have also worked in the media industry as an announcer at Radio Sraiesh and Radio Payam Banoo, where I used my voice to advocate for important social issues. Additionally, I was actively involved in Dorakhshan Association as a civil activist, working on initiatives to support education and women’s rights.

I was also part of ACTID Association, where I worked on community-based projects and received training in photography. Through this, I learned how to use photography as a tool for storytelling and raising awareness about social issues. Furthermore, I had the opportunity to work with USAID’s "Promote: Women in the Economy" program, which aimed to empower women by providing them with economic opportunities and skills to become financially independent.

Currently, I am pursuing my Master’s degree at Asian University for Women (AUW), where I am focusing on education and policies that can help create a better future for Afghan girls.

During my free time, I enjoy capturing meaningful moments through photography, engaging in discussions about education policies, and spending time with my sister and friends.

I am Omar Salma, you can call me Salma too.

A dreamer born in a small village in Maungdaw, the northern Rakhine State of Myanmar. My childhood was like a bird with wings, yet trapped in a cage, unable to soar by the harsh reality of being a Rohingya. I dreamed of exploring the world, but the doors of freedom were never open to me. But life took a devastating turn on August 25, 2017, when my world was shattered. That night, we fled our burning homes, carrying only our wounds and memories, walking for days through jungles, until we arrived in Bangladesh and the land that became both our refuge and our prison. Broken but alive.

Bangladesh has become my second home, though life in the world’s largest refugee camp was far from easy. In  2018, when I secured a full scholarship to Asian University for Women (AUW), marking a turning point in my journey. As the first girl from my bloodline and hometown to graduate, this achievement was not just mine, it was a victory for every girl who dares to dream beyond boundaries. In 2023, I graduated with a BSc in Public Health, and now, I continue my journey with an MA in Education while working as a Wellness Coordinator for the General Studies program at AUW. 

Alongside my studies, I have dedicated myself to volunteering with organizations like WFP, BDRCS, and UNHCR in the refugee camp. Beyond that I am a Volunteer, Researcher, Translator, Interpreter, Writer, Photographer and Traveler. My photography has contributed to two photobooks, Unseen Courage and Food for Thought, celebrating the resilience of Rohingya women and the richness of our traditional cuisine through Rohingyatographer. Additionally, I co-authored a research article on cancer prevention among Rohingya refugees, recently published in The Lancet Oncology. 

I am Omar Salma, a survivor, a seeker, a storyteller. Despite everything, I believe in hope. I believe in peace. I believe in breaking barriers. My journey is not just my own, it is the story of my people, our struggles, and our unwavering spirit. 

‘Hope is my Home; Peace is my Dream’

To sum up,

Life is so fast and vast that it feels like yesterday. I knew where I was heading, but today I am on a road asking myself, "Where do I go from here?"

Things will change, and life goes on. So find joy in the little moments...

I am back in school taking this class, so I can switch to being a general education teacher for the remainder of my career.

In my free time I like to exercise, watch TV shows, watch mma or football, and try new restaurants.

I come from the heart of the largest port city of Bangladesh, Chittagong. A place where the sea meets the hills, and cultures converge like waves against the shore. But if you ask me to describe who I am, I must admit: I am a story still being written, a journey still unfolding. I am infinitely exploring myself, and perhaps, I always will be.

Teaching has always been more than just a profession for me, it is a calling etched into my soul. I learn not only from books but from the rustling of leaves, the chatter of curious minds, the chaos of city streets, and the quiet wisdom of life itself. For the past six years, I have had the privilege of guiding preschoolers, Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2 students, each child a new chapter, each classroom a new world.

This passion led me to pursue greater heights, and Asian University for Women felt like the perfect continuation of my journey. There is a quiet joy I feel when a child grasps something new, a smile, a spark, a moment of discovery. That is where my contentment lies.

Oh, and if you take a glance at my photo, you will know something else about me: I love to cook. Feeding people fills my heart with warmth. It is, to me, a language of love. Like learning, it knows no age, no boundaries, just pure joy.

Beyond the classroom and the kitchen, my path once led me to the doorsteps of the ready made garment workers of Bangladesh. At the Bangladesh Institute of Labour Studies (BILS), I worked as an activist, diving deep into the hidden realities of the women behind the nation’s largest economic engine. I investigated hygiene issues that impact not only their health but also the futures of their children. It was eye opening. Humbling. Harsh, yet honest. It made me realize how deeply connected we all are, through systems, through stories, through struggles.

To me, life is a lifelong pursuit of knowledge. And I want to give back. I want to be a part of something greater, a movement to make education more accessible, more meaningful, more human. I want to reach those who have been left behind by the system and show them what learning can truly be.

Because in the end, every child deserves a chance. And I hope, with my heart, hands, and voice, I can help create that path.

Thank you.

I have been into teaching since my freshman year of high school, when I was placed in a child development course. I was introduced to working with scholars from age ranges 4-5 years of age. I feel in love with the environment I was in since these students showed so much love. I am currently working with 3rd graders, which I love. 3rd grade is a grade level I want to teach, as I love their independence.

Aside from loving teaching, I am someone who loves coffee. My favorite thing to do is visit coffee shops and walk by the beach. Aide from coffee I am someone who truly enjoys traveling. I have been to Mexico about 27 times ever since I was little. My favorite city to travel to is Mexico City and Zacatecas. My goal is to visit South Korea and Paris France. In the future I hope to continue teaching and hopefully have the funds to open a coffee shop in the future.

I was born and raised in Kabul, but I consider the world my homeland. Anyone, anywhere, who fights for freedom and awareness is my friend and kindred spirit.

I have experience teaching children, and it’s one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. I truly enjoy working with them and being around them, always eager to explore the beautiful world they carry within.

I’m somewhat introverted. I deeply enjoy solitude, reading books and poetry, dancing, and reflecting within my world.

I love everyone because I see each human as a product of their environment, upbringing, relationships, and childhood experiences. That’s why I find it hard to blame anyone.

My dream is to transform the world into a place where all humans are equal, where honesty reigns, and selfishness does not exist. I strive to do my part in making this world a reality.

I have started my new journey at AUW, pursuing a Master's in Arts in Education. It’s a journey full of challenges and new experiences, a truly exciting adventure.

Death: "Human beings make life so interesting. Do you know, that in a universe so full of wonders, they have managed to invent boredom.” ― Terry Pratchett, Hogfather

My name is Monique Andrade

I am working on my Multiple Subject Credential. Currently, I am doing my student teaching at Nuffer Elementary in Norwalk. My background in education is that my cousin is a teacher, so I have helped in her classroom multiple times, and her co-workers at the same school. I have also volunteered at various elementary schools for special events and programs to gain experience. My next education goal is to apply to graduate school in Fall 2028 to obtain my Master's in Curriculum and Instruction 

 I have a few hobbies that I love, which are attending music festivals, reading, traveling, and painting. I do very much enjoy spending most of my time with my family and friends; they have been amazing with support through my time here at Dominguez. 

At an early age, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I can vividly remember completing “When I Grow Up” projects in elementary school, specifically the one where you are given a blank cutout that you have to draw yourself in your future career. In one hand, I paced a book and in the other I placed a yardstick. However, due to limited artistic capabilities at the time, the choice in outfit was rather questionable. 

Later in middle school, I had a teacher who helped me work through some anxiety I had faced (off and on) almost my whole life. He was the first teacher to not send me to the nurses office when I became nonunderstandably emotional in class. Instead, he talked me through my panic attacks, and helped me dive into reading books to keep my mind occupied. Now, I find reading the Bible and building relationships with Jesus Christ to help me the most with any issues or obstacles I face.

My experience in working with children varies throughout age groups. I’ve been the “cool aunt” among my nephews and nieces for quite some time now. With that being said, I am familiar with helping with homework for almost all grades. In a more formal setting, I used to work for the Boys and Girls Club at Fleming Middle School for nearly two years. I loved working there, however I ultimately had to resign from my position when my work and school schedule no longer aligned. Soon after, I began to gain experience as a volunteer in a kindergarten classroom, where I was able to find a really great mentor. Most recently, I have been working on campus as a student aide for Snap Inc. Institute for Technology & Education (SITE). Over the summer, we hosted two different summer camps - one was about Dance and STEM, while the other one was about Robotics. 

A few hobbies I’ve enjoyed are arts and crafts, hiking, and most recently fishing - which I don’t know much about so my boyfriend usually takes over. I love to be out in nature, it is quite refreshing after being indoors the whole week. I also really enjoy being around my family, and going to different coffee shops.

Up in my picture, is my little family. I am surrounded by boys and boy do they keep me on my toes. Our weekends are spent in family from participating in basketball games, ballet folklorico, classes, attending church, swimming classes, and visiting grandparents. I have a great support system surrounding me and allowing me to grow professionally. I hope that as I continue in this profession, I am able to make a difference in students lives, just like my 5th grade teacher Mrs. Banda did in mine.

My name is Ainor Hussein. I’m currently working on completing my teaching credential. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from CSUDH in 2021. Initially, I planned to take a year off after college, but life intervened, and I ended up taking longer.

I’ve always had a passion for teaching since childhood. I used to gather my friends and pretend to be their teacher. However, when I started college, I decided to pursue computer science, which turned out to be an incorrect choice. After a semester, I made a happy change to liberal studies.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with children in different settings, including nannying, teaching at a daycare, after-school tutoring, preschool teaching, and instructional aide. I’ve always had a natural talent for working with children and connecting with them.

When finally deciding to start my credential program, I was working as a full-time instructional aide for a TK class at Barton Hill Elementary School through LASUD. Since I already knew the students, families, staff, and community, I decided to conduct my student teaching there.

My ultimate goal is to complete my credential and go on the journey of obtaining my Master’s in Education.

My name is Aby. I was born in San Diego and was raised between SD and LA. I have 2 cats, Juni and Celine. I am a CSUDH Alumni where I earned my Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. I immediately pursued my teaching credential in Multiple Subject and aiming to finish this December! I have worked with preschoolers for 5 years now, since high school! I have loved it ever since I started and learned plenty about what each child has to offer and what I am capable of.

I recently got placed into a 5th grade class of LBUSD. Honestly, my preference was grades K-3, but 5th grade surprised me. With the help of my mentor, she is already making me enjoy working with this age group! I am taking working with this age group as an opportunity since I have experience working with a younger age group. I am a bit worried with the lessons I will be teaching but I am switching my POV, to look at it as a challenge.

I am looking very forward to see what this last semester has yet to show me and what I am willing to do about it!

My name is Rosario. I am a wife to my childhood crush, and a mama to a 6th grader and two fur babies. I enjoy being at home, but I'm learning to enjoy traveling because of the husband (he's the planner when it comes to traveling).

I received my A.S. in Early Childhood Education from Cerritos College, and my B.S. in Child Development from CSUDH. I'm currently working for my teaching credential in Multiple Subject.

The past 4 years I've worked at Bellflower Unified School District and I am now doing my student teaching in this school district. I started working with BUSD in 2021 as a Special Education Instructional Aide for preschool, TK, and Kinder. I was an aide for two years and then I applied for Substitute Teacher position; I did subbing for two years as well. Subbing was an eye opener to all grade levels; I subbed from preschool to high school. Of course I prefer the primary grades. Now I am doing my student teaching with my son's second grade teacher. I got lucky that I was able to get placed in BUSD and with my preferred teacher.

I know this semester is going to be challenging, but I love that I get to be with the same teacher (she's amazing!) and class for half of the school year.

My name is Kimberly Rodriguez. I got my bachelor's in child development at CSULA in fall 2023 and crossed stage in spring 2024. I am currently in the multiple-subject credential program at CSUDH and I have made so many amazing friends and learned so much so far.(:

I am a first-generation college student, I'm Hispanic and proud. Both my parents came to America for a better life and gave my siblings and me just. They are not just my best friends, but my motivation to keep going. I am the youngest of 4, I have 2 sisters and 1 brother, and I am a Tia to 2 nieces and 2 nephews, whom I love as my own.

I have always loved working with children, I was a Teacher Assistant for 3 years and then about a year ago I became a substitute teacher. Being in the field with children means not only being patient but also understanding and listening to your students. I want to be the teacher where my students leave my class with knowledge and lessons that they will always carry with them. I also want to be their safe space from the cruelty this world brings.

Apart from my education and career, I am a sucker for outdoor activities. I love nature and trying new things. I try to travel as much as I can during breaks even if that means I am broke for a while hehe.

Anyways, I hope this semester is good to all of us and that we take some knowledge into our future teaching.

My name is Yensi Mazariegos. I am currently a student at CSUDH completing my credentials for teaching in Multiple Subject. I graduated Spring 2025 and in the future would like to pursue my Master's. Some things that I enjoy doing is playing video games, drawing/painting and crocheting. My interest in education came with the experiences I had during my childhood and education growing up. I have always done volunteering with my mom at schools, so I believe this gave me a push of encouragement to become a teacher. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends by having family movie nights. I live in Hawthorne and the community is very supportive. I am currently working with Zela Davis Elementary with my mentor teacher and I hope to stay here permanently. I am with a 3rd grade class this year so it is very different from Kindergarten haha. Although this semester is going to be very different, I am prepared for what's to come!

My name is Alexander Soto. I was born and raised in the South Bay area. I am a recent graduate of CSUDH, where I got my bachelor's in Liberal Studies. I am currently going to CSUDH to earn my multiple-subject credential.

My interest in education began when I started teaching swim lessons and life-saving skills to children. I taught ages ranging from a few months old to high school students practicing for the swim team. Teaching students in a one-on-one setting allowed me to see the impact that I can have on learning.

I continued to explore my passion for education by working as a para-educator for my local school districts. When working as a para-educator, I got my first work experience in the classroom setting. I was a substitute and worked in a variety of classroom settings. I worked one-on-one with students who had various abilities, and would tailor the lesson or activity to fit the needs of my students.

Currently, I am a student teacher at Aspire Inskeep Academy in a kindergarten classroom. I am excited to finish the semester strong and progress my students through the first half of their school year.

Time for my personal life: I have a beautiful girlfriend (Jessica), and we have been together for four years. I enjoy traveling and trying new foods. Some of my favorite places I have traveled to include Canada and Turks & Caicos. In my free time, I enjoy working out and exploring my photography hobby. My favorite foods are fried fish and chicken caesar salads. My favorite fast food is In-N-Out, and my order is a double-double with a whole grilled onion and animal-style fries (If it was a long day, I will also get the Neapolitan shake).

I am so excited, I have been in the classroom with the second graders for only a week and I can already tell that I did not decided wrong to come back to school and finish my teaching degree. I love the kids and the school. I know that it has only been a week but I have seen Mrs. Olivas in her classroom and the way she teaches and I know that I am going to learn a lot from her and the students.

I have a nine year old daughter in the same school in fourth grade and she is so happy and proud of me that I am there with her and doing what I love to do. She tells me every morning "good luck with your kids" and I know they are not my kids but it sure feels like it. I can not wait to have a classroom of my own with my own kids. I hope everybody is as excited as I am. Is going to be a great experience and a great semester.

Good luck everybody!!

I have a daughter and she's the one that pushes me to achieve my goals. My husband is a Marine Veteran and we have known each other since HS (yes a long time lol).

My interest in becoming a teacher was because of my own Kinder teacher, she was very supported and bilingual. She will also give me the opportunity to come and volunteer in her classroom as I got older. Currently I am working for a charter school as a TK teacher and I love it. I enjoy my students and have great relationship with families. I came from a low income community and my mother did not have lots of resources as well as a language barrier. So growing up I always felt limited to what I could achieve and felt I didn't belong. I want to do the opposite and make sure everyone in my class and community feel welcome and valuable. I want to be the bridge to success for many low income families and assure them that they will be successful.

My name is Ruqiyo Abdo, and I'm on the final leg of my journey to earn my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. My path to teaching started with my B.A. in Liberal Studies, focusing on Early Childhood Education.

After I finished my B.A. in 2022, I took a couple of years to work as a paraprofessional in a Pre-K class in the Irvine school district. Those two years were amazing. I got to experience the beautiful chaos and joy of a classroom firsthand and absolutely fell in love with working with kids. Right now, I'm student teaching in a 3rd-grade class at 186th St. Elementary in LAUSD.

My dream of being a teacher started when I was young. Growing up with five younger siblings, I was always around kids, but I never had a teacher who looked like me or who I felt truly cared about me. That experience is my biggest motivation. I want to be the teacher I needed when I was a student, someone who creates a classroom that is not just a place to learn, but a safe, loving community where every child feels like they belong.

A little about my life outside of school. I'm a mom to eight-year-old twin boys who are my entire world. We live in Irvine (yes, it's a bit of a commute to CSUDH, but I make it work!). We love to travel, seek out new adventures, and have epic board game nights with classics like UNO and Sorry.

I can't wait to get to know you all!

My name is Milena and I am a first generation college graduate. I was born and raised in LA County along side my 2 older siblings whom I can always rely on. My parents immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico at a very young age in search for better life opportunities and thanks to their tremendous amount of effort, they have manage to build the life they always dreamed of which consists of having all three of their children graduate from a four year university. Both of my siblings attended UC Irvine and everyone was convinced I would follow in their footsteps. However, as the youngest I always felt the need to forge my own path so I decided to attend UC Berkeley. This was a big choice considering the university was hundreds of miles away from home. Attending Berkeley meant leaving behind my friends and family which was hard but everyone remained very supportive and I eventually found my way. It was there where I met a whole bunch of new people and had experiences which I am very thankful for. In the end, I received my B.A. in Sociology in the Spring of 2023 and it was that same year that I began my journey working in education.

I spent the year post grad working as a child care worker in a preschool class with the Long Beach School District where I fell in love with helping the little ones learn and explore the world around them. Knowing I wanted to become a teacher, the teachers and staff I worked with became my mentors and encouraged me to become a substitute teacher to gain more experience with k-12 students while I waited to start the credential program here at CSUDH in the Fall of 2024. I am still a substitute teacher and have been able to implement what I have learned throughout the course of this program into the classroom environment which has been super helpful. I can't wait to see what this semester has in store for me and hope to become the best teacher I can be for my future students!

At the end of my B.A. and the start of phase 2, I was able to become more actively involved in classrooms, and interacting with children has only strengthened my desire to work in this field.

My dream has been to be able to positively impact students, and I am just getting even closer to this goal as time goes by. I am both scared and excited to get through this semester and hope to see everyone just as motivated!

After living in San Diego for 4 years, I decided to come back home to LA to live with my family and pursue my teaching credential here at CSUDH. I have always enjoyed my experiences working with children from volunteering as a VBS helper and youth basketball coach to substituting as a K-12 teacher, so I feel very blessed for this opportunity to pursue a career where I get to teach and learn alongside children. 

I am currently placed in a 2nd grade class in TUSD to do my student teaching. I am both excited and nervous for this semester and all the unknowns and new experiences it holds, but I feel reassured knowing that I have a community who is there with answers and is also going through the same learning as me!

As of right now, I am working on my last year of the credential program and I'm hoping I get hired so I can be full time somewhere next year.

Some background information about me is that I have lived in Torrance, California my entire life. I attended elementary school in San Pedro, which is also the school I am currently student teaching at, until transferring to Torrance Unified where I completed the rest of my middle school and high school years. After graduating high school, I immediately started working as a teacher’s assistant at Harry Bridges Span School for three years. I then transferred to Taper Avenue Elementary School (which is where I attended as a student and am doing my student teaching at) and worked as an Instructional Literacy Aide for one year. Once graduating college, I became a substitute teacher for Torrance Unified School District. In my free time, I love to read and crochet.

My name is Brenna, and I am currently in Phase III of the credential program and right at the finish line to becoming an Elementary school TEACHER!

Truly couldn't be more excited. I have always loved working with children and find that it gives my life a meaningful direction. I grew up as a competive figure skater and was commited to it for fifteen years. When I turned nineteen, I decided it was time to choose a career that would be more sustainable and wouldn't break my body apart like figure skating did. The ice was not very forgiving when you fell. However, I found coaching to be a creative outlet and something that didn't hurt quite as much. Teaching kids how to ice skate was so much fun, but pursuing my degree had always been part of a larger dream – to make a lasting impact in the world of education. That path has led me to this moment; dedicated to creating a space where young minds can find their voice, express their creativity, and flourish. Let's finish strong!

God bless you Friends!!! Hope that you all had an amazing summer and ready for this new season of greatness! I am so extremely proud of you all (Mark 10:27 With God all things are possible).

I enjoy spending time with family, especially my earth king who survived a very rare cancer twice and we love going to the beach, riding his Harley, enjoying home and cooking yummy meals.

My name is Jenise Jackson and I am going for round two with my Multiple Subject Teaching Credential. My undergraduate degree was in Liberal Studies and Physical Education. My graduate degree was in Curriculum and Instruction. I began working as a teacher of record in 1999 and after several attempts was unable to pass the rica exam and after substitute teaching at many Los Angeles Unified Schools, was eventually laid off. I began working in aviation for many years and was promoted to be the only female SkyCap at LAX but there was a longing in my soul to get back to my passion of teaching which is one of the many things God birthed me for. I began working as an Instructional Assistant at a wonderful high school with people (both students and adults) who are now my family. I began student teaching August 2025 with another amazing school: Windsor Hills Math/Science/Aerospace Magnet Elementary School. I am paired with a fantastic mentor teacher, who is graciously leading me as a Second Grade teacher. I began teaching in elementary for two years but my twenty plus years in education have primarily been in middle and high school. My all time favorite and beloved subject is Physical Education!!!