Walking in her parents footsteps

Addison Curry is a junior at the University of Tampa studying Elementary Education. Addison mentioned her inspiration to become a teacher was because of her parents. “My parents were both teachers, which is one thing that inspired me to become a teacher. I’ve always looked up to them and admired them, so I was partly interested in majoring in education because of how much they valued education. I also had so many great teachers growing up that inspired me to become a teacher; so many teachers left a positive impact on my life and inspired me to persevere through challenges, and I want to be able to inspire my future students in the same way,” said Curry. 

Not only has Addison's journey been influenced by her parents, but also her high school piano teacher left a long-lasting impact on her. “One teacher who inspired me to pursue a degree in education was my piano teacher in high school, Ms. Perry. Every time we walked into her classroom, she made us feel safe, welcome, and supported. If I was having a bad day, I was instantly uplifted when I got to her class. Any time I was confused in class, she worked with me and let me know that she was there to support me. I genuinely felt that she cared about me as a person and wanted me to be successful. I hope to be a teacher like that for my future students; I want to have a classroom where all students feel respected, valued, and safe to be themselves,” said Curry.

As Addison continues her journey of becoming a teacher, she mentions the solid support system around her. “My family and friends are all so supportive of me in my journey to becoming a teacher. My family is always checking in on me and sending me encouragement when I need it. My friends at school are all so supportive and help me out in any way they can; they have sat through countless lessons of mine, pretending to be students and doing assignments to help me run through. I am so grateful for everyone who has supported me, given me advice, and given me feedback,” said Curry.

Not only has Addison’s family and friends played significant role in her support system, but she also expressed that she feels supported by Pursue Scholars. “Pursue Scholars has been so supportive of me in my journey. From care packages to the most simple encouraging texts, Pursue has made me feel that they want me to be successful in my college journey. I know that if I ever need advice or someone to talk to, I can reach out and know they are able to help,” said Curry.

Although Addison still has time to figure out her career goals and the path she desires to take, she knows what kind of educational experience she wants to provide for her future students. “After I graduate, I plan to become a teacher. Some of my best memories growing up were at school, and I hope to provide an educational experience for students that they can remember positively. I not only want to help students be successful in their academic goals, but I also want to build connections with students and support them in their everyday lives. Some of my best teachers supported me in and out of the classroom, which is something I strive to do as a future teacher. While teaching is challenging, it’s all worth it to see students inspired and grow as they learn,” said Curry.