From a very young age every child cultivates an idea of what they want to be when they get older. Growing up, I thought I wanted to be a scientist, then a writer, a therapist, and finally I decided upon becoming a teacher. It was clear from a young age that I wanted to be someone who made a difference. My search for a personal purpose began with an obstacle that could be summed up with two words: selective mutism. Two seemingly simple words that made my early life not so simple. This complex childhood anxiety disorder kept me from talking in any social environment outside of my home which directly impacted my aspirations. In school I communicated with teachers and classmates through sticky notes which made each day both difficult and isolating. 

       For over seven years I worked persistently toward breaking free from those two words. While all my teachers were supportive, one in particular put in the extra time and forged unbreakable connections. She guided me to use my voice for the first time at school, a day and a moment that I will never forget. From there I progressed to sing a solo at the Christmas program, chose to take a public speaking class, coach little league softball, and found the courage to enroll in college for art education. Without a teacher who worked beyond her expectations, it is likely that my story’s outcome would be much different. As a kid, being able to talk and teach in front of a room full of people seemed unattainable, but because of someone who cared, I was able to reach heights that I never thought possible. All it takes is one person in a child’s life to positively impact the plot of their story; I aspire to be this person.  

       After conquering my two-word battle, I grew up to be a teacher. I am confident that art education is the medium through which I will make a difference. Teaching art is crucial because it helps children recognize that they are someone who is valuable, who belongs, and who can bring about change. Our world depends upon those who are capable of applying creative thinking and problem solving to community issues as well as global efforts. As an art educator I am in the position to inspire and empower upcoming generations with creativity, ingenuity, and the notion that there is no end to what they can achieve.