Having graduated from the University of Maryland with a B.S. in Elementary Education, I have a wealth of knowledge in teaching pedagogy and experience working with students in different settings.
During my time at university, I worked with America Reads, a program where college students tutored elementary school students using evidence-based reading intervention strategies.
Through America Reads, I discovered my love for teaching children. The best part was forming a connection with students in a way that fostered a love for learning, boosted self-esteem, and academic strides.
After declaring my Education major, I spent my senior year student teaching internship in a 4th-grade "inclusion" classroom. The majority of students in my classroom performed below grade-level and/or qualified for school-based services because they had special needs. This opportunity taught me how to differentiate my teaching to cater to the individual needs, strengths, learning styles, and personalities of each student.
My senior internship led me to develop my philosophy of teaching and education. I believe each student is capable of learning, it just requires a safe, positive, engaging, and appropriately challenging environment.
The key to student success is meeting them where they are, setting realistically high expectations, and teaching the "whole child." In order to teach the "whole child," I must develop and foster a strong connection with the student. My goal is not only to help them strive academically but also to grow as a life long learner and a more confident person.
I was able to put my philosophy into practice during my first year as an official teacher. I taught 2nd-grade in a dual-immersion Title I school. My first year was full of trial and error but taught me that I have the capability, skills, and passion to educate children.
MISC.
Some fun facts about me are that I was adopted from China and that I was a cheerleader at the University of Maryland!
Also, in my free time, I enjoy art (charcoal, ink, graphite, digital, painting), playing video games on the Nintendo Switch, working out at Orange Theory Fitness, and reading about psychology.