How has teaching virtually been so far? What have been some challenges? How did you overcome them?

Teaching virtually has been quite challenging as there have been a number of frustrations and disappointing moments. As a teacher I love getting to know my students and seeing them interact with each other, and that has been difficult on Zoom. I also love doing hands-on activities and games in class, which are not feasible anymore. Like everything right now, I’m learning to embrace how things have to be and make the most of it!

What do you miss most about the normal school year?

The thing I miss most is seeing students interacting with each other and hearing students laughing with each other in the halls. The halls are so empty now!

What can/do students do that make the virtual experience better for you?

I think all of us can make the virtual experience better for one another by taking a moment to step into each other’s shoes and imagine how things are for someone else. I truly appreciate when my students turn their cameras on so I can see them and respond when I greet them! I also like it when they ask me questions and have a positive attitude.

What’s your favorite part about teaching?

My favorite part about teaching is getting to know each student and learning about their interests, personalities, and future goals.

When did you know you wanted to become a teacher?

I’ve known I wanted to be a teacher since I was young! School has always been a place I enjoyed. I come from a family of teachers and was lucky to have several influential teachers during high school who encouraged me.

What’s your teaching philosophy?

My teaching philosophy is that connecting with every student is what will help them achieve their goals and be the best they can be!

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I can also speak some Mandarin.

What’s your biggest advice to high school students?

Be kind to one another, and only worry about the things you can control.

What’s your most memorable experience teaching?

I don’t know that I have just one experience, but I always love it when I get a note from a student. I save every note I’ve ever gotten in my desk and like to read through them after particularly difficult days. I also love it when students stop by my room just to say hi.

What’s your favorite movie/tv show?

My all-time favorite show is Mad Men, but I also love Succession, The Office, and Seinfeld.

What’s your favorite food?

Potatoes! (Chips, French fries, mashed…it’s a problem)

What’s your favorite book?

My favorite book is Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi. Her writing is absolutely beautiful and the story was so thought-provoking.

What do you do in your spare time?

I love to cook! I’m currently going through all of Thomas Keller’s cooking lessons on MasterClass.

Cats or dogs?

Dogs 100%. It’s my dream to have a goldendoodle one day!