Who was your most influential teacher? Why?
6th Grade: My homeroom teacher (I can’t remember her name) saw more potential in me than she saw in the school itself, its staff and other students combined. She convinced my mom to transfer me to a better Academy where she was certain I’d succeed. I did. There I gathered my self-esteem and academic confidence. The school she saved me from is now permanently closed and happens to also be the name of the bridge that collapsed in Baltimore on March 26, 2024
8th Grade: Mrs Guillmette was her name I believe. She supported me in the most subtle ways, she never said what she was doing or why she was doing it, she just did it. I noticed and appreciated it deeply. I couldn’t forget her even if I tried.
High School (Grade 11): Here I met Mrs. Nierman my English teacher. If I recall properly, as part of an assignment I wrote an autobiography and that either moved her or concerned her (likely both). Either way she enjoyed my writing and encouraged me to do it more. I did. Later that year and many after, she became my mentor and later my friend. She is the reason I love writing now.
College (Year 1): I walked into my writing 101 class expecting to learn how to write better, instead I learned about the environment, sustainability and minimalism. She was incredibly passionate about sustainability and she made it clear as she rode her bike to work everyday, drank water from GLASS bottle, and ALWAYS recycled. I loved it though. I don’t remember learning much about writing but I do know she is where my appreciation for Mother Earth started. The following semester I enrolled in environmental science.
There’s a special place in my heart for all the educators who have and continue to make a positive impact on the lives of the children they encounter. My experiences with own my teachers and professors has carried me through countless dark times and for their efforts, I will forever be grateful.
In Quest of Her 