Why did you decide to become a teacher?

When I started at Marquette University, I didn’t really have an idea of what I wanted to do, and I just knew that I liked math. Marquette forces students to take a lot of social justice-type classes, and I started liking the subject and the idea of helping out the community.  The other option I considered was engineering but I found the subject fairly boring so I chose teaching and am very happy with the choice that I made.

What’s your favorite memory at MCA?

Graduation Day. I teach seniors, so it was especially rewarding to see them walk across that stage. The students honestly feel like family members after teaching them for an entire year. I’m not someone who gets emotional ever, and graduation was one of the most emotional times of my life.

How have you grown professionally at MCA?

I hit a lot of speed bumps my first year at MCA. But, was able to achieve tremendous growth due to both of my coaches and a positive attitude. I was able to grow as a teacher by consistently focusing on what I needed to do and how I would do it to become a better teacher. I’m not even close to perfect now, and still try and improve everyday through reflection.

What have you learned from your students?

The best life lesson I’ve learned from my students is that if you be yourself, you’re going to make friends and people will like you. This has helped me greatly in my social life, and I was not expecting this lesson at all.

Why should someone come work at MCA?

My favorite thing about MCA is the team that we have here. Teaching can be stressful and if you feel like you can’t communicate about it or have some fun with your coworkers then it can be really tough. The work is fulfilling because you are doing great things for these kids, but there’s no way you can get through it all alone, and that’s where the MCA team comes in.

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I honestly didn’t decide to be a teacher. I almost fell into it. I was in college trying to figure out what to do with my life and my professor told me that I would be my happiest teaching. She was right.

What’s your favorite ritual at MCA?

Friday Morning Shout Outs! It is the time where we celebrate everyone in the building for their hard work and dedication, and the kids love it!

How have you grown professionally at MCA?

I have grown tremendously at MCA. The administrative staff is highly supportive, and always has an open door when it comes to thinking about how to advance my teaching. I have also been given leadership opportunities here that have helped me to capitalize on my skills while developing others. From the consistent feedback from administration and the space to discuss ideas with teammates, MCA gives me no other choice but to grow in my practice.

What have you learned from your students?

I have learned that consistency is key. I have also learned that being my genuine self is the best way to reach my students. They have taught me how to love them in a way that they appreciate, and through their modeling I have learned how to keep pushing regardless of setbacks. They have taught me how to be strong, because they need me to be.

Why should someone come work at MCA?

People should come work at MCA because our leadership team is hands on and supportive, our kids are beyond great, and the staff works together to get the job done.

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

I have always loved learning and helping others understand concepts, ideas, etc. Prior to teaching, I participated in various activities and organizations that involved my performing in a teaching capacity. Those factors, coupled with a sincere interest in helping to enrich the lives of kids, made teaching a natural choice when I decided to pursue a different career path.

How have you grown professionally at MCA?

I have grown immensely as a professional at MCA. Our leadership encourages and supports professional development of the staff in various ways. As a member of the MCA staff I have had numerous opportunities to participate in partnerships, local and national professional development, and national fellowships, where I have learned best practices from key individuals and organizations in the field of education, administration and leadership. As a result, I have grown from being a teacher, into a lead teacher, department chair, and an administrator during my time at MCA. I doubt that I would be the professional that I am today, had it not been for my time at MCA.

What have you learned from your students?

My students have taught me that learning happens in many different ways. I have also learned patience and that this work matters.

Why should someone come work at MCA?

Individuals interested in joining a team that is committed to working to positively impact the lives of youth and equip them to become productive, well-rounded people should come to work at MCA. Not only will you be helping to develop the minds of students, you will grow professionally and personally as well. I believe there are few other places where you will have the support of leadership and your team the way you will at MCA.