What inspired you to become a teacher?

My father was a 6th-grade social studies teacher, and I was lucky to have so many inspiring social studies teachers throughout my grade school years. More than anything, my Black Studies courses at PC taught me so much about American History that I was not taught in high school. Because of this experience, I want to provide my students with the proper context to understand the world around them today by uncovering selective misinformation in history education.

How did your undergraduate and work experiences prior to this program inspire you to go into teaching and pursue an MAT degree?

I always knew I would be a teacher, but wanted to spend my time studying more history and gaining life experiences before starting a teaching program. I double majored in History and American Studies and minored in Black Studies at Providence College, receiving my bachelor's degree in 2017. I then worked in the service industry and nonprofit sector before returning to school in 2020 to earn my master's in history at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, UK. During my graduate degree, I wrote my dissertation, 'Racial Histories of Rhode Island: Education, Local History, and Public Debate (2018-2021),' which focused on my passion for inclusive, diverse, local history education in RI. Deepening my knowledge of history, understanding a global perspective of American history, developing transferable skills in my other jobs, and building deep ties in Rhode Island has prepared me well for a career in education. 

What drew you to Brown's Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Program?

I was drawn to the MAT Program firstly because it is in Providence, where I have lived for 10 years and where I want to teach one day. Secondly, I was impressed with the program's commitment to culturally responsive, relevant, and sustaining teaching.

What's your favorite part of the MAT program? 

My peers are so encouraging and supportive, and I love that the MAT program has brought together so many people with different interests and teaching experiences into one space. I learn so much from them every day and feel grateful to have this network to lean on as we go on into our careers.

What has been a highlight of your experience in the MAT program so far?

The students are definitely the best part of this work. I feel so grateful for their trust and encouragement as I embark on this new career, and they definitely energize me and push me to be the best educator I can be. I felt especially lucky to teach students in small class sizes during Brown Summer High School.
 

Where are you doing your student teaching, and what do you like most about the experience there so far?

I am a student teacher at Paul Cuffee Upper School. I love the rich school culture they have and how intimately the teachers know the students as individuals. 

What are you most excited to teach?

I am most excited to teach local history through a culturally responsive lens. I believe that this history is important to both help students understand inequities in their communities and understand the rich, beautiful history that exists all around them every day. 
 

What is your favorite part about living in Providence and being at Brown?

I love Providence so much. The food, the people, the history, the proximity to beaches and Boston/New York, the architecture, and the creative atmosphere... I could go on and on! I believe this city is so special because it has so much going on, yet feels like a small town community. Being at Brown, I have access to so many more events, activities, and connections which I am very grateful for.