BA '99
As an immigrant, it was within my category to start at that stage because I read that CCNY had offered to immerse immigrants into the educational philosophy of America. It was near my home, so it was easy for me to come home to the kids and then head to the college. It was mostly a community of immigrants. It boosted my self-esteem. I had people I could talk to - even the professors - and socialize with. When I went there, I was writing and was all over the place with my thoughts. The professor said, 'You have to slow down. You have to think. You have to read it and go over it.' That's how I became a professional in the educational system. The parents in the schools that I worked in want their kids to come to my class. I worked in education for 17 years.