While teaching as a graduate student at the University of Central Florida, Sara realized her love for education, teaching, and the empowerment of students. Shortly after, she joined Teach For America.

Q & A

What are some of the major lessons you learned during the corps?

I learned the importance of student-led learning, harnessing a community to engage students in opportunities, and the benefits of taking risks. I tried to take the mindset of “the answer will always be no if you don’t ask.” 

What specific skills did you develop?

I learned how to meet people where they are. I learned what motivates people and how to establish empathy in high-stress situations. I also adapted the mentality that it is absolutely necessary to let go of my perception of control to give students the ability to learn in a way that makes sense to them. 

What parallels can you draw between your time as a corps member and your current role?

Just this week, I found myself talking to a student who was struggling in class. As a student with autism, he struggled to adapt and cope with some situations in the classroom. During my time with Teach for America, I worked with students experiencing similar situations.

I currently manage our school for the arts. I can confidently say I would not have the previous experience or knowledge to understand and accurately handle unique situations of conflict and management with students, parents, and our programming had I not joined Teach For America.