As the son of immigrants who grew up in a low-income community, Howard (Houston '10) knows the challenges one faces en route to higher education. After teaching high school in the corps, he's now using his leadership skills in the business sector.

Q & A

What led you to apply to Teach For America?

The decision to apply was a no-brainer. Having grown up in a similar environment as my students and as a child of immigrants, I felt a calling to do my part to give back to a community similar to mine. My family, friends, teachers, and so many others helped me get to where I was in life with a great education and upbringing despite some of the challenges around me.

When you think about yourself before and after the corps, what changed?

My time with TFA helped me to realize that I enjoyed leading people, improving the status quo, and carrying out my entrepreneurial passions. That is why I went on to get my M.B.A. and go into consulting. Closing the achievement gap is not a two-year commitment—it’s a lifelong promise. My time in the corps made me question the social impact of my actions in my career and life.

How have you utilized the skills and beliefs you learned in the corps?

I utilize skills I developed, such as presenting to stakeholders, analyzing data, communicating effectively, working under pressure, and always finding solutions to challenges. I know if I had the responsibility to transform the lives of hundreds of students, I can do almost anything.