[Hot_Copper_Frog]

I “FIRST” because FIRST is the reason that I graduated from high school and have a career. I had a very troubled home life and found refuge in FLL, and then FRC. My mentors and team-mates became my second family, and helped me explore my potential and figure out what I wanted to do with my life. They encouraged me, taught me a lot of really useful skills, boosted my confidence, and inspired me (especially my ambitious female mentors - I'm looking at you Mrs. Gleason, Mrs. Nader and Gina!). I went from failing most of my classes to taking four AP’s my senior year and graduating with a full semester of college credit. I was able to pursue an awesome degree in environmental science and now work at a great engineering company.

This program made such an impact on my life – and I committed to giving that opportunity back to others. I love my day job, but my true passion is working with my students. There is nothing more rewarding than watching them learn, discover, and grow. If I can make a difference in just one kid’s life, that makes all of the late nights and exhaustion and stress worth it. I have a little shoe box that I keep notes and thank you cards in from students that I’ve worked with over the years…if I get frustrated or down I take a glance at them and remember why I do this.

I don’t think I’ll ever give up on FIRST, because FIRST never gave up on me.