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Stephanie Rochowicz

885

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

I’m currently entering my junior year at Benedictine University, where I’m not only pursuing a degree in special education but also playing on the softball team. My goal is to create a safe and supportive classroom environment for my future students and to prioritize their mental health. I’m passionate about integrating mental health awareness into my teaching and making a positive impact on my students’ lives.

Education

Benedictine University

Bachelor's degree program
2022 - 2026
  • Majors:
    • Special Education and Teaching

Hinsdale South High School

High School
2018 - 2022

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Bachelor's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Education, General
    • Special Education and Teaching
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Education

    • Dream career goals:

      Principal

      Sports

      Softball

      Varsity
      2009 – Present15 years

      Future Interests

      Advocacy

      Politics

      Volunteering

      Netflix and Scholarships!
      I highly recommend BoJack Horseman if you're looking for a series to dive into this weekend. Initially, I found the show a bit dull and challenging to get into. The premise seemed quirky—an animated series featuring a talking horse named BoJack who was once a famous actor. At first glance, it might appear to be just another offbeat comedy, but I urge you not to judge it solely on its surface. BoJack Horseman is much more than a show with an unusual premise. The series delves deeply into BoJack's tumultuous life as he grapples with his fading fame, personal demons, and a plethora of self-destructive behaviors. What makes this show stand out is its remarkable ability to address complex themes such as mental health, addiction, and the search for personal growth with profound sensitivity and insight. The character of BoJack is exceptionally relatable, which is part of what drew me into the series. His journey through the highs and lows of fame, his struggles with addiction, and his ongoing quest for meaning mirror many real-life experiences and challenges. The show doesn't shy away from portraying the darker sides of human nature, but it does so with a blend of raw honesty and dark humor that is both thought-provoking and often heart-wrenching. One of the reasons BoJack Horseman might seem slow or odd at first is that it requires you to look beyond its surface humor and delve into its deeper narrative layers. As you continue watching, you begin to uncover the intricate connections between BoJack’s experiences and your own life. The series expertly blends moments of comedic relief with powerful, introspective scenes that prompt you to reflect on your own life, relationships, and personal struggles. It’s a show that gradually reveals its depth, making you ponder not just the characters’ journeys but also your own. The storytelling is nuanced, and the character development is exceptional, making it a compelling watch as you follow BoJack’s attempts to reconcile with his past and forge a better future.If you give BoJack Horseman a fair chance and stick with it, you'll find that it’s more than worth your time. It’s a series that challenges you to confront uncomfortable truths and encourages deep self-reflection. Trust me, once you get past the initial impressions, you'll discover a series that offers a unique and meaningful viewing experience. It’s definitely worth clearing your weekend for, as it promises a binge-watching experience that’s both entertaining and profoundly moving.
      Strong Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship
      Leadership, to me, is about empathy, resilience, and the ability to inspire and support others. My journey and experiences have shaped me into a leader who is deeply committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those around me, particularly in the realm of education and mental health. My experiences with mental health have instilled in me a profound sense of empathy and compassion. Having struggled with depression, anxiety, and borderline personality disorder, I understand the challenges that many individuals face. This personal insight allows me to connect with others on a deeper level, offering genuine support and understanding. As a leader, I strive to create environments where people feel valued and heard, fostering a sense of community and trust. Overcoming personal challenges has built my resilience and determination. My freshman year of college was particularly tough, but navigating through that period taught me the importance of perseverance and self-care. This resilience is a cornerstone of my leadership style, as I believe in leading by example and showing others that it is possible to overcome adversity and emerge stronger. My determination to prioritize mental health in education and support my students stems from this resilience, driving me to advocate for meaningful change. My passion for mental health advocacy is a defining aspect of my leadership. I am dedicated to creating environments where mental health is prioritized and where individuals feel safe to discuss their struggles. This commitment is evident in my career aspirations as a special education teacher, where I aim to support students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EDBD) and challenging home lives. By advocating for mental health awareness and training among educators, I hope to inspire a broader cultural shift toward empathy and understanding in the education system. Supporting my boyfriend, who has high-functioning autism as well as depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety, has honed my communication and listening skills. I have learned the importance of being present, listening actively, and providing support without judgment. These skills are crucial in leadership, as they enable me to build strong relationships and create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. My ability to communicate effectively and listen empathetically allows me to understand and address the needs of those I lead. As a leader, I am committed to inspiring and supporting others to reach their full potential. Whether it is through mentoring peers, advocating for mental health, or working with students, I strive to empower others to overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. My experiences have taught me that everyone has the potential to succeed with the right support and encouragement. By fostering a positive and supportive environment, I aim to help others realize their strengths and capabilities. Leadership requires a clear vision and a sense of purpose. My vision is to create a world where mental health is prioritized, and individuals feel supported and understood. This purpose drives everything I do, from my academic pursuits to my interactions with others. By staying true to my vision and purpose, I can inspire and lead others towards meaningful and impactful change. What makes me a leader is my empathy, resilience, commitment to mental health advocacy, effective communication and listening skills, ability to inspire and support others, and a clear vision and purpose. These qualities, shaped by my personal experiences and challenges, drive my passion for making a positive impact on the lives of those around me. As a future special education teacher, I am committed to leading with empathy and compassion, creating supportive environments, and advocating for mental health awareness in education.
      Redefining Victory Scholarship
      Success, for me, is multifaceted and deeply intertwined with my passion for education and mental health advocacy. As I envision my future, I see success as creating a classroom environment where students not only excel academically but also feel emotionally supported and understood. This vision of success is rooted in my personal experiences and the profound impact that mental health awareness can have on students' lives. First and foremost, success means being a teacher who prioritizes mental health. I want to establish a classroom where students feel safe to express their emotions and struggles without fear of judgment. I envision a space where mental health is openly discussed and where students know that their well-being is just as important as their academic achievements. This involves implementing regular check-ins, providing resources for mental health support, and fostering a culture of empathy and understanding. In this supportive classroom, students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EDBD) and those from challenging home environments will find a refuge and a champion in their teacher. Success means being able to identify the signs of mental health struggles early and intervening with appropriate support and resources. It involves collaborating with parents, counselors, and other educators to create comprehensive support systems tailored to each student's needs. By doing so, I aim to reduce the stigma around mental health and encourage students to seek help when needed. Success also means equipping my students with the skills they need to manage their emotions and navigate life's challenges. This includes teaching coping mechanisms, resilience, and self-awareness. I want my students to leave my classroom not only with academic knowledge but also with a toolkit of strategies to support their mental health throughout their lives. Furthermore, I see success as being an advocate for mental health within the broader educational community. I aspire to lead by example, demonstrating the positive impact that prioritizing mental health can have on student outcomes. This includes sharing my experiences and insights with fellow educators and advocating for mental health training and resources to be integrated into teacher professional development programs. By fostering a culture of mental health awareness among educators, I hope to create a ripple effect that benefits students beyond my own classroom. This opportunity to pursue a career in special education, particularly working with students who have EDBD and challenging home lives, is instrumental in achieving my vision of success. It provides me with the specialized training and knowledge needed to support these students effectively. Through my studies and practical experiences, I will gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges these students face and the best practices for addressing their needs. Additionally, this opportunity allows me to connect with like-minded educators and professionals who share my passion for mental health advocacy. Building a network of support and collaboration is crucial for driving change within the education system. By working together, we can develop innovative strategies and programs that prioritize mental health and create supportive learning environments for all students. In summary, success for me is defined by my ability to create a classroom where mental health is a priority, where students feel safe and supported, and where they are equipped with the skills to manage their emotions and challenges. It also means being an advocate for mental health within the educational community and contributing to a broader culture of empathy and understanding. This opportunity to pursue a career in special education is a critical step towards achieving this vision, providing me with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to make a meaningful impact on my student's lives and the education system as a whole.
      Elevate Mental Health Awareness Scholarship
      My experience with mental health has profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. My freshman year of college was particularly challenging, as I struggled heavily with depression and anxiety. During this period, I often felt isolated and overwhelmed, which took a significant toll on my well-being. Looking back, I believe that my life could have been positively impacted if a professor or mentor had recognized my struggles and reached out to ask if I was okay. The feeling of being alone and unsupported during such a critical time was damaging and left a lasting impression on me. It made me realize the importance of having a support system and the role that educators can play in the mental health of their students. This experience has driven me to pursue a career in special education, with a focus on working with students who have emotional and behavioral disorders (EDBD) and challenging home lives. My journey through mental health challenges has shaped my beliefs about the importance of empathy, understanding, and support in education. I firmly believe that educators have a responsibility to not only teach academic content but also to nurture the emotional and mental well-being of their students. My freshman year of college taught me that sometimes, a simple act of kindness or a genuine inquiry into someone's well-being can make a world of difference. As a future special education teacher, I am committed to creating a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported, and understood. My experiences have also influenced my relationships, making me more patient and empathetic. Supporting my boyfriend, who has high-functioning autism as well as depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety, has further deepened my understanding of mental health. His experiences and the challenges he faces have taught me the importance of listening and providing support without judgment. This has not only strengthened our relationship but has also equipped me with the skills and perspective needed to support my future students effectively. In my future classroom, I plan to emphasize the importance of mental health and create a supportive environment for all students, especially those with EDBD and difficult home lives. I want to be the kind of teacher who notices when a student is struggling and takes the time to ask if they are okay. My goal is to provide the support and understanding that I wished I had during my freshman year of college. I believe that by doing so, I can help my students feel less alone and more capable of overcoming their challenges. Furthermore, my personal experience with depression, DRDP, and anxiety has given me a unique perspective on the struggles that many students face. I understand how debilitating mental health issues can be and how they can impact every aspect of a person's life. This understanding drives my passion for mental health advocacy and my desire to create a classroom where students feel empowered to seek help and support. I also hope to inspire other educators to prioritize mental health in their classrooms. I believe that all teachers should be trained to recognize and address mental health issues, as this can make a significant difference in the lives of their students. By sharing my experiences and advocating for mental health awareness, I aim to contribute to a shift in the educational system towards a more holistic and supportive approach to student well-being. My experiences with mental health have profoundly influenced my beliefs, relationships, and career aspirations. They have taught me the importance of empathy, support, and understanding in education and have driven me to pursue a career in special education with a focus on EDBD and students with challenging home lives. I am committed to creating a classroom environment where students feel safe, supported, and understood, and I hope to inspire other educators to do the same. My journey has been challenging, but it has also been a source of strength and motivation as I strive to make a positive impact in the lives of my future students.
      John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship
      I have chosen to pursue a career in special education because of a deep-seated commitment to supporting students with diverse learning needs and a personal journey that has profoundly shaped my understanding of empathy and patience. My decision to switch my major to special education was directly influenced by my experiences with my current boyfriend, who has high-functioning autism, depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Supporting him has taught me invaluable lessons about the importance of listening, understanding, and providing unconditional support, which are critical in the field of special education. In my daily life, I have learned that some individuals need someone to simply listen without offering advice, which has significantly improved my ability to connect with and support others. This realization has deepened my empathy and patience, qualities that are essential for a successful career in special education. I have seen firsthand how tailored support and understanding can positively impact someone’s life, and I am passionate about bringing this same level of care and dedication to my future students. My desire to create an impact in special education stems from a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student can thrive. I aim to make a difference by focusing on individualized education plans (IEPs) that cater to the unique needs of each student. This approach ensures that students receive the support and resources they need to succeed academically and personally. By creating personalized learning experiences, I hope to help students develop confidence in their abilities and achieve their full potential. Additionally, I am dedicated to advocating for mental health awareness and support within the classroom. Integrating mental health education into the curriculum is crucial for helping students manage their emotions and build resilience. My goal is to create a classroom environment where mental well-being is prioritized, and students feel safe to express their feelings and seek help when needed. By teaching coping strategies, and mindfulness techniques, and providing access to counseling services, I aim to support students’ overall well-being and academic success. My personal experiences have also reinforced my commitment to making education engaging and relevant for all students. I plan to use creative teaching methods and hands-on learning experiences to make lessons more interactive and enjoyable. By connecting classroom activities to real-world applications and incorporating students’ interests into the curriculum, I hope to foster a love of learning and encourage students to take an active role in their education. Ultimately, my goal is to create a positive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued, understood, and empowered to achieve their goals. My journey and experiences have equipped me with the empathy, patience, and dedication needed to make a meaningful impact in special education. By combining my passion for supporting students with my commitment to mental health and creative teaching, I am excited to contribute to the field and help shape a brighter future for all learners.
      JT Lampert Scholarship
      Supporting others in my everyday life is a fundamental aspect of who I am, influenced significantly by my experiences with my current boyfriend, who has high-functioning autism, depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety. Through our relationship, I have become more patient, understanding, and empathetic. I’ve learned that sometimes, people need someone to listen to them rather than offer advice. This has transformed my approach to interactions with others, making me a better listener and more compassionate towards their struggles. In practical terms, I support my boyfriend by being a consistent and reliable presence in his life. Whether it's providing a listening ear during difficult times or helping him manage his daily routines, my focus is on offering unconditional support and understanding. This relationship has taught me the importance of empathy and patience, qualities that are essential in any supportive role. My experiences have deeply influenced my decision to switch my major to special education. I plan to carry the lessons I've learned into my career as a special education teacher, where I can provide the same level of understanding and support to my students. In the classroom, I will prioritize creating an inclusive and nurturing environment where every student feels heard and valued. By employing active listening and empathetic communication, I will foster a safe space where students can express themselves without fear of judgment. Additionally, I aim to develop individualized support plans that cater to the unique needs of each student, much like I do with my boyfriend. Understanding that each student is different, I will focus on their strengths while providing the necessary accommodations to help them succeed. My goal is to empower my students by recognizing their potential and providing them with the tools they need to thrive. Furthermore, I will advocate for mental health awareness and support within the educational system. By integrating mental health education and providing resources for students, I hope to create a classroom environment where mental well-being is prioritized. My experiences have shown me the importance of addressing mental health issues openly and compassionately, and I intend to bring this awareness into my professional life. Ultimately, my journey with my boyfriend has shaped my perspective and career path, reinforcing my commitment to supporting others. As a future special education teacher, I will use my personal experiences to create a compassionate, inclusive, and supportive learning environment, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
      Marjorie Moriole Early Childhood Education Scholarship
      Creatively teaching and engaging students, especially in a special education setting, requires a multifaceted approach that caters to diverse learning styles and interests. One way I plan to excite my students about learning is through the integration of technology and interactive tools. Using tablets, smart boards, and educational apps, I can create a dynamic and interactive learning environment. For example, students can participate in virtual field trips, interactive storytelling, and educational games that reinforce key concepts. These tools not only make learning more engaging but also provide immediate feedback, helping students stay motivated and on track. Additionally, incorporating multimedia resources such as videos, music, and animations can cater to auditory and visual learners, making lessons more accessible and enjoyable. Another strategy is to design hands-on, project-based learning experiences that connect classroom lessons to real-world applications. For instance, in a science unit, students can engage in experiments, create models, or even start a small classroom garden to learn about plant life cycles and ecosystems. In a math lesson, students can use manipulatives and interactive math stations to explore concepts like geometry and fractions. These activities not only make learning tangible but also foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. By allowing students to explore topics in-depth and apply their knowledge in practical ways, I can help them see the relevance of what they are learning and develop a genuine interest in the subject matter. To further enhance engagement, I will incorporate student interests and strengths into the curriculum. By getting to know each student’s hobbies, passions, and preferred learning styles, I can tailor lessons to resonate with them. For example, if a student loves animals, I might integrate animal-related content into reading and writing assignments or use animal-themed math problems. Additionally, I will create opportunities for student choice and voice, allowing them to take the lead on projects, choose their learning activities, or set personal goals. This empowerment fosters a sense of ownership and autonomy, making students more invested in their learning journey. Finally, fostering a positive and inclusive classroom culture is essential for student engagement. By creating a supportive environment where students feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and celebrate their achievements, I can help build their confidence and enthusiasm for learning. Regularly incorporating social-emotional learning activities, team-building exercises, and mindfulness practices can also contribute to a nurturing classroom atmosphere. Through these creative and student-centered approaches, I aim to inspire a lifelong love of learning in my students, helping them reach their full potential.
      RonranGlee Special Needs Teacher Literary Scholarship
      Why I Am Passionate About the Special Education Teaching Profession Being passionate about special education is rooted in a fundamental belief that every child, regardless of their abilities or challenges, has the right to an education tailored to their needs. This belief is driven by my personal experiences, my commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment, and my dedication to helping students learn in ways that resonate with them. Special education is not just about teaching academics; it's about teaching life skills, fostering independence, and nurturing self-confidence. It requires creativity, patience, and a deep understanding of each student's unique learning style. As someone who has dealt with personal mental health challenges and who is passionate about mental health awareness, I understand the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive environment where students feel safe, valued, and capable of achieving their full potential. Defining the Statement by Professor Harold Bloom Professor Harold Bloom's statement, "I have learned that the purpose of teaching is to bring the student to his or her sense of his or her own presence," encapsulates the essence of transformative education. It suggests that teaching is not merely about imparting knowledge but about guiding students to a deeper self-awareness and understanding of their unique identity and capabilities. This sense of presence is about helping students recognize their worth, their potential, and their ability to contribute meaningfully to the world around them. In the context of special education, guiding students to experience their own presence involves several key strategies. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) tailor learning experiences to meet the specific needs and strengths of each student, ensuring they receive the support and resources needed to succeed. Building strong, trusting relationships with students creates a safe and nurturing environment, involving understanding their interests, fears, and aspirations. Empowering students to take ownership of their learning by providing choices and fostering independence, setting personal goals, and celebrating achievements, no matter how small, is essential. Inclusive practices ensure that students with special needs participate in all aspects of school life, including classroom activities, extracurriculars, and social events, helping them feel a sense of belonging. Integrating mental health education and support into the classroom helps students manage stress, anxiety, and other challenges, teaching coping strategies, mindfulness techniques, and providing access to counseling services. Finally, teaching practical life skills such as communication, social interaction, and problem-solving helps students navigate the world with confidence. My Mission in Special Education My mission as a future special education teacher is to create a classroom environment where every student feels valued, understood, and capable of achieving their full potential. I aim to advocate for inclusion by ensuring that all students, regardless of their abilities, have access to the same educational opportunities and experiences. I will foster self-confidence by helping students build self-esteem through recognizing and celebrating their unique strengths and accomplishments. Supporting mental health is crucial, so I will integrate mental health support into the classroom to help students manage their emotions and build resilience. Promoting lifelong learning is essential, and I will encourage a love of learning by making education engaging, relevant, and fun. Finally, I will prepare students for the future by equipping them with the skills they need to succeed in life beyond the classroom, including vocational skills, social skills, and self-advocacy. Fairy Tale Once upon a time, in a quaint village nestled between rolling hills and a sparkling lake, there was a dedicated and compassionate special education teacher named Stephanie. She was known throughout the village for her kind heart and unwavering belief in her students' potential. Stephanie lived in a cozy cottage with her trusty German Shepherd, Harley, who accompanied her everywhere. Stephanie's village was home to many wonderful children, each with their own unique abilities and challenges. Among them were Winifred, a girl with a brilliant imagination but who struggled with reading; Elizabeth, who had a talent for music but found it hard to communicate; and Frank, a boy with boundless energy but difficulty focusing in class. Stephanie's dream was to help each of her students discover their own sense of presence, just as Professor Harold Bloom had described. She believed that by doing so, they would recognize their own worth and potential. Stephanie set out on her mission with a heart full of hope and a mind brimming with ideas. One sunny morning, Stephanie gathered Winifred, Elizabeth, and Frank in her classroom. "Today, we're going on a magical journey," she announced with a smile. "We're going to find out what makes each of you special and how you can shine in your own unique way." With Harley leading the way, the group ventured into the Enchanted Forest, a place where the trees whispered secrets and the flowers sang melodies. As they walked, Stephanie handed each child a magical mirror. "These mirrors will show you your true self," she explained. "But first, you must believe in your own magic." Winifred gazed into her mirror and saw herself surrounded by fantastical creatures and enchanting stories. Stephanie encouraged her to write and draw her ideas, helping her discover a love for storytelling that made reading come alive. Elizabeth's mirror revealed a world filled with music, where she communicated effortlessly through melodies and rhythms. Stephanie introduced her to various musical instruments and encouraged her to express herself through songs, unlocking her ability to connect with others. Frank's mirror showed a landscape where his energy was a superpower, allowing him to accomplish incredible feats. Stephanie channeled his energy into physical activities and hands-on learning, helping him focus and thrive in his studies. Throughout their journey, Stephanie used her knowledge and creativity to tailor her teaching methods to each child's strengths and interests. She created a classroom environment where they felt safe, valued, and capable of achieving their dreams. As the sun began to set, the group returned to the village, their hearts full of newfound confidence and joy. Stephanie knew that her mission was far from over, but she felt a deep sense of fulfillment knowing that she had guided her students toward discovering their own presence. And so, Stephanie, with Harley by her side, continued her work with unwavering dedication, helping each child in her village recognize their own worth and potential. Together, they created a world where every student could shine brightly, just as they were meant to. Conclusion The passion I have for the special education teaching profession is rooted in my commitment to helping students recognize their own presence and potential. By creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment, advocating for mental health awareness, and fostering self-confidence, I aim to guide my students toward a future where they feel valued, capable, and empowered to achieve their dreams. Through creativity, patience, and unwavering belief in their abilities, I am dedicated to making a lasting impact on the lives of my students, just as Stephanie did in her magical journey.
      Enders Scholarship
      The passing of my cousin David has profoundly impacted my life, evoking a complex array of emotions that I’ve had to navigate with care and reflection. Losing David, who died from an overdose at the age of 26, was a heart-wrenching experience that has shaped who I am today. His loss brought about deep feelings of grief, sadness, and sometimes confusion, as I struggled to understand and accept his untimely departure. In the wake of David’s passing, I found solace in journaling and writing letters to him. These practices have been incredibly therapeutic for me. Journaling allows me to process my thoughts and emotions, offering a way to work through my grief and reflect on my memories of David. Writing letters to him serves as a personal ritual where I can communicate my feelings, seek closure, and feel a connection to him even though he is no longer physically present. These methods have provided comfort and a sense of ongoing dialogue with him, helping me to navigate the pain and find moments of peace. My journey through grief has also led me to learn more about myself. I've discovered a deeper well of resilience and compassion within me. Facing such a profound loss has made me more empathetic towards others who are dealing with similar struggles. It has reinforced my commitment to mental health awareness and support, and it has given me a clearer sense of purpose in my educational and professional pursuits. I have admired Princess Diana of Wales for many years. Her remarkable ability to connect with people, her dedication to charitable causes, and her genuine care for others have been a source of inspiration for me. Her legacy of kindness and advocacy has profoundly influenced my values and aspirations. I strive to embody some of the compassion and dedication she demonstrated, particularly in my future role as a teacher, where I hope to make a meaningful difference in my students' lives. Continuing my education is an essential step in my journey. College represents an opportunity for personal and professional growth, where I can build on my experiences and passions. It is a place where I can further my understanding of mental health, special education, and the ways in which I can support others. My goal is to use my education to create a positive impact in the lives of my future students, just as David's memory and Princess Diana’s legacy have inspired me. Ultimately, my experiences with loss and my influences have shaped my path and given me a clearer vision of how I want to contribute to the world. Through education and advocacy, I hope to honor David’s memory and emulate the caring spirit of Princess Diana, making a lasting difference in the lives of those I am fortunate enough to support.
      Brian J Boley Memorial Scholarship
      While I am not pursuing a career in the mental health field, I believe teachers must be well-versed in mental health. As a future teacher, I recognize the profound impact that mental health can have on students' lives and learning experiences. Having personally dealt with depression, borderline personality disorder (BPD), and anxiety, I understand the challenges that mental health issues can present. These experiences have shaped my perspective and underscored the importance of mental health awareness and support within the educational environment. Teachers are often on the front lines when it comes to interacting with students daily. This puts us in a unique position to notice changes in behavior, mood, or performance that may indicate underlying mental health issues. Unfortunately, not all teachers are adequately trained to recognize or respond to these signs. This gap in knowledge and training can leave students without the support they need during critical times. I believe that all future educators should be trained to handle mental health issues. This training should encompass recognizing the signs of mental health struggles, knowing how to provide initial support, and understanding when and how to refer students to professional help. By integrating mental health training into teacher education programs, we can ensure that teachers are better prepared to support their students' overall well-being. In my future classroom, I plan to implement strategies that prioritize mental health. This includes creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable expressing their feelings and seeking help when needed. I want to incorporate regular check-ins with students to gauge their mental and emotional state, and provide resources and activities that promote mental well-being. By normalizing conversations about mental health, I hope to reduce the stigma and create a culture of openness and support. Furthermore, I aim to collaborate with school counselors and mental health professionals to ensure that students have access to the help they need. This includes advocating for mental health resources and support systems within the school, and working to create policies that prioritize students' mental health. Ultimately, my goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of my students by addressing their mental health needs alongside their academic ones. By being proactive and compassionate in my approach, I hope to create a classroom environment where students feel valued, understood, and supported. Through my own experiences and the knowledge I gain, I am committed to being an educator who not only teaches but also cares deeply for the well-being of my students.
      Linda McCoy-Aitkens Memorial Scholarship
      Reflecting on my childhood, one question I wish teachers would have asked more often is, "How can we better benefit you as a student, and do you need a break from the routine to relax?" This simple yet profound inquiry could have made a significant difference in my educational experience. The traditional approach to education often overlooks the importance of mental health and the need for occasional breaks. As students, we were expected to continuously perform at our best, without much consideration for our emotional and psychological well-being. I believe that acknowledging students' needs for balance and rest can significantly enhance their overall well-being and academic performance. One way to address this is by occasionally incorporating breaks where students can relax and unwind, such as watching a movie. This kind of approach not only breaks the monotony of the routine but also provides a much-needed respite for both students and teachers. It allows students to recharge, reducing burnout and improving their focus and productivity when they return to their studies. As a future teacher, I am determined to implement this idea in my classroom. I want to create an environment where students feel supported and understood, where their needs are taken into consideration, and where they are encouraged to take care of their mental health. By doing so, I believe I can foster a more effective and nurturing learning environment. It’s not just about academic achievements; it’s about the overall development and well-being of the students. My inspiration comes from a teacher I had who understood the importance of breaks. He would occasionally set aside a day for us to watch a movie, relax, and unwind. These days were not just about fun; they were about recognizing the hard work we put in and giving us a chance to breathe. The impact was profound. We felt more understood and valued, and it motivated us to perform better in our academic tasks. It wasn’t just a break from the routine; it was a recognition of our efforts and an acknowledgment of our need for balance. This experience has greatly influenced my goals and aspirations as a future teacher. I want to be the kind of teacher who sees beyond the curriculum and understands the holistic needs of my students. I want to create a classroom environment where students are encouraged to speak up about their needs and where their well-being is a priority. By incorporating regular breaks and moments of relaxation, I hope to help my students achieve not just academic success but also personal growth and well-being.