2020 was quite the year-- Australian bushfires, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle quitting the royal family, COVID-19 pandemic, Kobe Bryant's death, Stock Market crash, among many, many other horrible things. Regardless of all of those things, I managed to look at life through an optimistic lens and make the most out of every situation.
1. I landed my first job.
While I was finishing up my last college course virtually, I decided to take on a part-time job as a preschool teacher. Mostly, I worked with 3's, but once the pandemic hit I became more of a float. I learned that I had a love for children (older children to be exact).
2. I changed my first poopy diaper. (And, probably my last.)
I'm honestly not sure if I want kids after being a preschool teacher, but I do know that each and every day working at the preschool was a learning experience. I also realized my love for teaching.
3. I survived COVID-19.
In February, I got tested for the flu and my test result came back negative. 99.99% sure that I have COVID-19.
4. I completed my undergraduate career.
I graduated with Summa Cum Laude! I am so thankful for the opportunity I had to attend Cabrini University.
5. I got accepted into several graduate programs.
My top two picks were: Saint Leo University and the University of Southern California. I decided to go with Saint Leo University's M.S. in Psychology Program. I have finished two classes thus far, and have received A's in both of them. I am absolutely loving my classes-- they're fascinating!
6. I landed my first full-time job.
As a fifth grade teacher! And, I love it! It's one of those jobs that doesn't feel like a job. It's really cool.
7. I published research.
I can officially say I'm published! I published my research on the influence of athletic participation on academic performance in an undergraduate research journal.
8. I purchased an annual pass to Walt Disney World.
The first thing on every new Floridian's To-Do List. I've definitely got my use out of it.
9. I turned twenty-something and celebrated at my favorite Italian restaurant.
My students are dying to know my age and that is the one thing I plan on keeping from them. So, this year, I turned twenty-something and celebrated with my signature meal: fettuccine alfredo and mozzarella sticks.
10. I went to EPCOT's Food and Wine Festival.
One word: delicious! My boyfriend and I tried foods from several different countries.
11. I became an after-school tutor at the school I work at.
I am trying to do the best I can and submerge myself in my school's culture. By being an afterschool tutor I have the opportunity to spend more time with my own students and work with some of the fourth graders. Not to mention, the curriculum lays out lesson plans, so I am learning a lot as I go.
12. I got a Florida Driver's License.
I am officially a Floridian! #Goals
13. I continued to volunteer at one of my favorite organizations.
I am in the midst of creating my own ESL class at my local church. I'll keep you all updated on that progress.
14. I decorated my very own classroom.
It was super overwhelming! I am already beginning to plan my room theme for next year.
15. I fell in love with teaching.
Like I mentioned earlier, it's that kind of job that doesn't feel like a job. That's the coolest feeling ever.
16. I rode Splash Mountain.
If you know, you know.
17. I Rae Dunn'd my room.
My room looks super chic. Room Tour coming soon!
18. I explored all four Disney Parks with my best friend.
Andres and I finally covered all four parks together.
19. I kayaked with manatees.
Really cool experience. 10/10 would recommend.
20. I voted.
For change.
This year was definitely not what I expected. However, I think it turned out better than I had planned. I graduated college with the highest honors, completed two graduate courses, and have a job that doesn't feel like a job.
