<<Throwing Spaghetti>> As a continuous work-in-progress, a lot of the key points in my life have been modeled after the "throwing spaghetti against the wall" saying. While I take my work seriously, I've also learned to remain open-minded and not limit myself to any singular approach when tackling a challenge. It's also important to have fun and enjoy the process. I'm grateful I've been able to work alongside brilliant parents, students, and teachers who have all taught me valuable lessons.
In addition to my advocacy work, I've also been a middle school teacher for over ten years now. I grew up being inspired by Anne Shirley, Miss Honey, and Ms. Frizzle - all literary crushes of mine. My hope of creating nurturing spaces for students where they can feel brave and proud to be themselves remains unchanged from the vision I set forth the first time I entered my classroom. Looking back at my childhood, I also recognize how much my mom and dad serve as my day-to-day inspiration. I was homeschooled for 1st and 2nd grade and continue to look back at that time fondly. A lot of the ways I approach my conversations with students are shaped by how my parents interacted with me.
My advice to young AANHPI women and girls is to be kind to ourselves. Oftentimes, there can be an expectation for us to navigate the world independently without asking for help. It's important to know we are not alone and that there are communities of folks out there we can lean on for support.
