Future Science Teacher Award: Yarely Aguilar

Meet Yarely Aguilar

I actually did not know I wanted to be a teacher. Growing up, no one told me I was particularly good at teaching, or that I was good at anything, really. It was not until my 8th grade science teacher acknowledged me. She tasked us with building paper rollercoasters to learn about forces and motion. Though mine was not exactly impressive, she recognized my effort and curiosity, saying to me, “You should study science in the future, you would make a great scientist.” These words struck me. To have someone see me pushed me to work hard in high school, and eventually study science in college. It was difficult. I did not know any scientists, let alone see myself in any scientists that I have seen in the media. My parents are immigrants from Mexico, did not complete middle school, and my family spoke little English. Can people like me succeed? These questions often surfaced during my educational experiences. Yet, I persisted, not only because of my family and community, but because of the teacher that told me that I could be something. I came upon other realizations throughout my struggles in college. I enjoyed science, but something else was missing to find fulfillment in the study. Upon interning at an elementary school for a course, it was quite clear: to empower others to succeed, to kindle curiosity, and to recognize the strengths, experiences, and identities of each student. Seeing students for their greatness became my goal.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned that you’d share with others?
It’s okay not to be perfect, and it’s okay to make mistakes. As humans we are clumsy, and we fall apart sometimes, or even sometimes we say the wrong thing. However, recognizing your mistakes, laughing a little, and learning from them, is some of the best learning you can ever do. When reflecting on my practices after teaching, I realize that I could have handled a situation a bit differently: maybe my tone could have been warmer, or I should have been more firm. While reflection is great for acknowledging our mistakes, it is also important to ground ourselves while doing so. Well, what went well today? How can I make tomorrow better? What is one small thing I can do for myself to make me feel positive? Going into teaching, or really anything in life, I assume that everyone has it ‘together’. This is not true. Everyone has their struggles, and we all make errors. So embrace the embarrassment! Learn as much as you can!

What's next for you?
For me, I like to take things day by day. Right now, I am in the UC Davis Teacher Credential Program, and I am looking forward to learning as much as I can, and completing my credential by next year. I would like to teach in middle school, and encourage students to succeed. I want to refine my teaching strategies and think deeply about the classroom culture I want to help cultivate. I also want to try out new activities that are relevant to all learners. Nature journals, recycling projects, etc which can invite students to the outdoors would be one of my goals in the classroom. I have learned a lot from my students every day, and I hope to learn more over the years! Outside teaching and classes, my next steps are to strengthen my cooking skills. Cooking was a regular routine and time to spend with my family, and I hope to shift back to cooking home meals that remind me of home.

What is the word that best describes you and why?
Resilient. I have faced some unexpected changes/life events over the past few years, but I know that each day is a new day, and I can bounce back.