My name is Ms. Emma, and I graduated from Cornell University in 2020 with a degree in Environmental Science, earning Cum Laude honors. Balancing academics, a social life, maintaining physical fitness, and working as a research assistant in a lab while at Cornell taught me discipline and time management. This ability to juggle multiple responsibilities was essential in preparing me for the challenges ahead in my professional journey.
After graduating, I moved to South Korea to be with my...
My name is Ms. Emma, and I graduated from Cornell University in 2020 with a degree in Environmental Science, earning Cum Laude honors. Balancing academics, a social life, maintaining physical fitness, and working as a research assistant in a lab while at Cornell taught me discipline and time management. This ability to juggle multiple responsibilities was essential in preparing me for the challenges ahead in my professional journey.
After graduating, I moved to South Korea to be with my then-boyfriend, who had been drafted into the military. I had planned to pursue a career in the environmental field, but the move required me to pivot my career. To stay in South Korea, I obtained a 120-hour TEFL certification and began teaching English. I started in 2020, teaching a range of students from 1st to 8th grade in groups of up to 15 students. While I taught subjects like TOEFL and literature, I quickly became burnt out by the rigorous schedule of teaching up to 9 hours a day. I yearned for a more meaningful challenge.
In 2021, I transitioned to teaching high school subjects, such as AP US History, AP Psychology, SAT Grammar, and AP Environmental Science at an AP academy. I also tutored international students from Japan and Paris, which enriched my teaching experience. By 2022, I sought a new opportunity and began teaching 5th grade at an international school, where I taught elementary science, math, social studies, and English. I even taught high school students in the summer program, helping them improve their English.
With over 4 years of teaching experience, my approach has evolved to foster student engagement and interactive learning. I focus on creating an environment where students feel encouraged, supported, and motivated to reach their full potential. I believe that the best learning happens when students are not only taught but inspired to learn. I am proud of the relationships I have built with my students, many of whom continue to reach out for guidance and even request recommendation letters.
