Learning the Spanish language and the cultures of Spanish-speaking locations around the world is invigorating! Teachers of foreign languages have a unique opportunity to help students communicate with, and learn from, people they otherwise might not encounter. Inspiring students to expand their horizons and encourage ongoing learning, as many of my teachers did for me, is a primary goal of mine. I am in the process of completing a program at Loyola University Chicago to earn a Master’s degree in Secondary Education in the content area of Spanish, as well as certification to teach grades six through twelve. I hope to graduate in 2013 and begin teaching Spanish at the high school level. I have completed six classes, earning A’s in each. I will complete four additional classes, as well as student teaching, to meet my graduation requirements.

During my senior year of high school, I worked and saved money to take a two week school-sponsored trip around Spain. That trip opened my eyes in a way that I couldn’t imagine, making me a more curious, patient and empathetic person. As a junior in college, I studied at the Universidad de Sevilla in Spain, and graduated the following year from Indiana University with a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Criminal Justice.

My first professional position was as a Juvenile Detention Officer near Chicago. I worked closely with young people, and determined that a career involving children would always be part of my plan. Among other duties, I translated all of the instructional materials and forms at the detention center to Spanish to accommodate the needs of the Hispanic youth and their families. After two years, I accepted a position with more responsibility and a chance to gain some excellent experience. For over four years, I have worked for the Illinois Supreme Court. I was responsible for writing curriculum and teaching all new probation officers their week-long, required, “basic training” using national research on evidence-based practices. Currently, I am responsible for organizing an annual, week-long seminar mandated for all new state court judges, as well as a biennial week-long conference that serves nearly 1000 judges’ continuing education needs. These experiences will serve me well in my future endeavors.

At Loyola, many of my classmates are experienced teachers, and I am constantly soaking up the valuable insights and practical tips they have been kind enough to share. The knowledge I’m gaining from these classes, my diligent work ethic, expertise and interest in the Spanish language, and my cultural knowledge related to Spanish-speaking areas will lead me to a successful career as a high school Spanish teacher.

Maintaining a healthy balance of my full time job, school, and social life has been a rewarding challenge. On my own, I purchased a small condo, paid off my student loans, and pay for my current classes without going into debt. I have been saving money in preparation for the semester of full time student teaching that will require me to leave my current job. Hoping to start a family in the next few years, financial responsibility is one of my top priorities, and this scholarship would relieve some financial strain. Thank you for considering me for the award of one of your generous scholarships!