Texas A&M University
Special Education
Most Impactful Activity, Class or Teacher
The Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE) has made me a confident leader and confirmed my passion for teaching.
Most Cherished High School Memory
My most cherished memory was is going to Disney World with Choir. Some of my closest friends were with me and it was an amazing experience.
Overcoming Challenge & The Lessons Learned
One challenge I faced was leading a service project through my TAFE chapter, where I organized a school-wide book drive that became a free book fair for a low-income school. At first, participation was low, and I felt overwhelmed trying to manage everything on my own. I went to my teacher leader, Mrs. Jansa, for help multiple times, expecting her to step in and take over. Instead, she offered small pieces of guidance and trusted me to lead, even though I didn’t really trust in myself. That experience pushed me to problem-solve, stay consistent, and build confidence in my ability to lead. Over time, the project grew, and I realized I was capable of more than I thought. The biggest lesson I learned is that growth comes from being challenged, and that leadership requires persistence, adaptability, and trust in yourself.
Advice on Succeeding in High School
Join! Find something to be a part of, whether it’s fine arts, UIL, a club, sports, etc. The extra things you do are what make high school fun! (Plus, colleges love it!)
My Inspiration
My sister, Kyla, has always been there for me. She worked hard for all that she has and still always made time to listen to me and make me feel loved. She remains strong, even through our struggles. She is my daily inspiration for how to be a true friend, sister, and leader.
Proudest Accomplishment
I won third at Educators’ Rising Nationals for writing and illustrating a children’s book. Even though this isn’t a very well-known organization, I am still extremely proud of this accomplishment. To have my creativity recognized when there were so many other extremely talented people also competing meant so much to me, and it is one of the highlights of my high school career.
Who Knew?
I have whistle tone! (The super high singing like Ariana Grande or Mariah Carrie)
Thank You So Much
So many different people are a part of who I am today, but few had as much impact as my CTE Education teacher, Mrs. Jansa. She encouraged me to be involved in TAFE from the beginning of high school and even “voluntold” me to run for Vice President my sophomore year. When I was a quiet freshman, constantly questioning myself, she pushed me to come out of my shell. She saw the leader I could become before I ever did and gave me the space and encouragement to grow. Without her, I might not have ever known my passion for teaching, and I would not have many of the opportunities that I have today. I’m so grateful to have had her as my teacher.