Biography
Being born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, I have always been captivated by the world of art. This lifelong passion guided me to pursue a Bachelor of Art in media arts and animation from the Art Institute and a Master’s of Art in visual development from Academy of Art University. While my academic education is rooted in art, my career took an inspiring turn when I had the privilege of working with neurodivergent children.
Although I didn’t initially envision a career in education, I embraced an opportunity to integrate art into the K-8 curriculum at a local school, focusing primarily on supporting neurodivergent children. This experience ignited a newfound passion for teaching within me, and I never looked back. I discovered the profound impact that creative expression could have on students’ learning and development. As I guided my students through various artistic activities, I witnessed remarkable transformations. Children who had previously struggled to engage with traditional educational methods began to flourish, finding new ways to express themselves and grasp complex concepts. Their progress was not only evident in their academic achievements but also in their increased confidence and enthusiasm for learning.
Watching my students thrive through the power of creative expression was incredibly rewarding, reinforcing my belief in the importance of a diverse and inclusive educational approach. This journey solidified my commitment to fostering an environment where every student can succeed through innovative and personalized teaching methods. At AJ, I have only been able to further my skills and impact in this approach. Because I have the ability to work one-on-one with students, I have a great opportunity to tailer education directly toward them.
In addition to my love for art, math has always held a special place in my heart. From an early age, I found joy in the structured elegance of mathematical concepts. Algebra, in particular, captivated me with its ability to unravel complex problems and reveal the underlying patterns and logic of the world. The beauty of algebra lies not only in its numerical operations but in its power to develop essential life skills.
Through algebra, students learn to think critically, approach challenges systematically, and devise creative solutions. These skills extend far beyond the classroom, equipping individuals with a problem-solving mindset that can be applied in various aspects of life. By understanding algebra, students gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of different fields and the ways in which mathematical principles shape our everyday experiences. My passion for algebra drives me to inspire others, showing them that math is not just about solving equations but also about unlocking new perspectives and opportunities.
My teaching philosophy centers on building strong relationships with my students and incorporating their interests into our time together. I pride myself on my ability to understand how my students learn best and adapt my teaching methods to suit their unique learning styles. This personalized approach ensures that each student can engage with the material in a meaningful way.
Beyond my dedication to art and teaching, I have a profound love for music and film. I also enjoy traveling and am an avid supporter of Bay Area sports teams, especially the San Francisco 49ers, the Golden State Warriors, and the San Francisco Giants. These interests enrich my life and often serve as a source of inspiration in both my professional and personal endeavors.