In elementary school if you had asked me what I wanted to be I would have told you, "a veterinarian". It's what I would dress up as on career day and felt confident in that decision. That is until one day in 4th grade our Golden Retriever had an encounter with a hostile deer. The deer slashed open our pup in a few different places and we had to take him to the vet for stitches. It was on this day that I found out that the sight of blood made me nauseous and faint. Laster, this undeniable revelation made me realize that I wouldn't make a very good veterinarian. Looking back it was after that moment my hopeful career path shifted into uncertainty. What else did I love? What else would enjoy doing? All I could think was I liked being outside and I like drawing. Neither of those seemed to be an option, but little me decided I'd figure it out later and thankfully we didn't dress up for career day after elementary school. Three years later, I walked into my chosen high school elective: Art. I decided to take it because I had always been creative and drawn a lot as a child, but never really thought much more of it. That is until I met my high school art teacher, Mrs. Weatherington. She saw the potential in me, and challenged me to push myself to new heights. She was one of the first people in my life who pointed out that my skill could actually take me somewhere. As a student, I was captivated by her joy, passion, and dedication to teaching art. It was her life. Through her unwavering dedication, she not only taught me the techniques of art, but also imparted the profound understanding that art was not merely a subject but a boundless universe of self-expression and exploration. It was her belief in me led me to take an AP art class in high school and pass. Many teachers inspire, but there's always that one teacher who leaves an indelible mark, who becomes not just an educator but a guiding star. Her classes encouraged me to look at university art programs which further ignited my own passion for not only teaching, but also learning. Senior year I decided to go to university for art education. 

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My undergraduate education in art was a profoundly enriching experience that has shaped who I am today as an artist and person. My professors played a crucial role in my learning and shaping my growth as an artist. They were not only experts in their fields, but also passionate advocates for the power of art to change the world. These passionate people had me questioning whether I should become a high school art teacher or go on to become a professor at a university. As a result, I decided to take some more time after graduating university before I decided. This led me to teach English as a second language (ESL) in South Korea for four years. It was an unforgettable journey that provided me with valuable teaching experience and allowed me to broaden my horizons. Living in a foreign country and experiencing a new culture was an enriching experience that expanded my worldview, yet again. Life continued, I got married and had children of my own. They gave me a new perspective on teaching. Watching my own children grow and interact with their teachers has rekindled my passion for teaching. I want to be the type of teacher my children deserve - one who inspires, encourages, and empowers them to achieve their full potential.

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After teaching in South Korea, I moved back to the United States, where I continued to pursue my passion for art. My paintings were displayed and sold in local galleries. I even created a small business, Altered Oak, to sell my art, and I am proud to say that my art has been shipped to almost every state in America and more than 12 different countries. One of my most exciting moments was when my house portrait ornaments were featured on the Today Show. Despite the success of my art business, I am still passionate about sharing my love for art with others, and I hope to inspire them as my own art teacher once inspired me. As a result, I am pursuing my Masters in Art Education in hopes of becoming the best teacher I can be and to make a meaningful impact in the lives of my future students. I hope that someday I'll be the teacher who inspires and makes an meaningful impact on the lives of others. 

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Everyone who remembers his own education remembers teachers, not methods and techniques. The teacher is the heart of the educational system.
– Sidney Hook

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