I graduated from SDSU in 2006 with a BA in political science, and an initial desire to work in federal law enforcement. After working multiple temporary jobs, I landed a job with an investment and securities firm. However, my position was a casualty of the 2008 financial crisis, and I was forced to look for new opportunities.
That loss would eventually lead me to my current profession. I started working in after school program at a local elementary, teaching math and ELA. I would later work as staff at a summer program, and then as mentor to at-risk-youth at middle school. I even worked as a staff member for a youth group home at night during that time span
My passion for working with youth, my thirst for knowledge, and my ability to share that knowledge in a way that was digestible, naturally led me to teaching profession. I’m currently a high school social studies teacher at a school serving students with some difficult circumstances. Some of my students are as old as 20.
The job can be difficult, but it is fulfilling and I could not see myself doing anything else. So, despite that setback almost 9 years ago, I am exactly where I want to be. I did not know where I was going, but I kept my kept moving. I share this story with my students because many cannot see beyond their current pitfall, and cannot see an ending where they’re in any better position.
I emphasize the idea that you will never know if you stop and quit. Keep yourself available to the possibility of a better life keeping on moving.
Theetbradley 