I believe that this quote perfectly sums up the past 18 months I have spent in graduate classes. There were times I wanted to cry and give up, but I believed in myself and my abilities. Now I am walking away with a great accomplishment, my Master’s degree. I was the first person in my family to get a bachelor’s degree, and now I am the first to get a Master’s. That is such an amazing feeling, and I am so proud of the hard work I have put in to my schooling, in hopes to be a positive role model for not only my family, but my students as well. The most important things I have learned throughout this experience are; never give up, always believe in yourself, and to take criticism and allow it to make you stronger.

In moving forward, I hope to continue to inspire the children I work with. I want them to know that they can do anything they put their mind to with a little hard work and dedication, I am an example of that. Being a positive role model is very important to me, and I hope to continue to cultivate meaningful and lasting relationships with each child I work with.

                          

I want to thank everyone that has been part of my educational journey. The classmates and instructors I have had were continually there for me, and pushed me to be my best. I could not have accomplished this amazing goal without you! I wish you all continued success in your life’s journeys, and don’t ever lose your passion!

<3 Melanie