Voices of Experience
The relationships we build. The confidence we inspire. The difference we make.
“She saw potential in me and helped me believe in it, too”.
When I look back on my childhood, Teresa is one of the people who made a lasting difference in my life. As the youngest of three, I often approached school differently than my brothers, who were studious, focused, and driven from the start. I was much more of a social butterfly, easily distracted, and always convinced I could find a clever shortcut to getting things done .At least, I thought I was clever!
Teresa always seemed to be one step ahead of me, finding ways to outsmart me at my own game without me even realizing it. She had a special way of balancing patience, compassion, and persistence, challenging me to do better while always making me feel supported.
More than anything, I’ll always remember how much she believed in me, even when my path looked different from my brothers. She saw potential in me and helped me believe in it, too. The foundation she helped build extended far beyond our tutoring sessions and continued to shape me throughout my education.
Now, just a few months away from earning my DMD and becoming a dentist, I can look back and recognize how important her guidance and support were in getting me here. I’m incredibly grateful to Teresa, not only for the teacher she was, but for the lasting impact she has had on my life.
—Former Student I DMD Candidate
From Struggling to Believing
“Watching him believe in himself academically was such a gift—”
Kevin went from a very low Level 1 to a very strong Level 4 in both reading and math. His academic growth was incredible, but what stood out even more was the transformation in his academic confidence. Watching him believe in himself academically was such a gift— and that’s thanks to the incredible work and support of his teacher.
—Former Parent
A Foundation That Lasts a Lifetime
“Her impact went far beyond helping me pass a test.”
Growing up, I was always more of a math and science person. Reading and writing never came as naturally to me, and they were subjects I genuinely struggled with. But Teresa had a way of breaking things down and teaching me little tips and strategies that made everything start to click. She was incredibly patient, but also knew how to push me when I needed it.
I still remember how proud I was when I earned my first Level 4 on the FCAT after years of scoring 2’s and 3’s. It was a huge accomplishment for me at the time and I know Teresa played a big part in making that happen.
Looking back on all those afternoons she spent tutoring me and my brothers, I’m incredibly grateful. Even today, I credit much of my reading comprehension skills to the foundation she helped me build. Her impact went far beyond helping me pass a test, and its something I’ve carried with me throughout my education and career.
—Former Student I Ph.D Graduate