Interview with JAM Paper 2017 Teacher Scholarship Winner

Interview with JAM Paper 2017 Teacher Scholarship Winner: Kwamae Nelson

Kwamae Nelson, JAM Paper's 2017 Teacher Scholarship Winner

So to start things off, what level of teaching do you intend to pursue? From reading your essay, we think you’d make an awesome professor.

I would love to begin my teaching career in the middle school level. The middle school time is an interesting experience where students begin to ask questions about themselves and the world that surrounds them. During this time, the influence of peers, instructors, and the material taught are enormously important in the lifelong development of the student. I’ve rarely thought of becoming a college professor though. That might come along at some point in my life.

What specifically, if anything, made you want to become a teacher?

Going through high school and middle school feeling like school is a waste of time when I loved elementary school so much. I was never taught the importance of learning and utilizing what one has learned in life until I got to college and began applying my knowledge to life that I realized how much of an impact school and teachers have on students.

In your essay, you spoke about how when you got to college you were shocked to learn that minorities had positively contributed to American history. What was the most shocking thing that you learned from your college education in regards to race, ethnicity, and our country’s history?

The impact of naming and the systematic implications of why this country is the way it is towards certain peoples. For example, utilizing the term minorities when referring to people of color, however if you think about it, people of color are the majority and white people are truly the minorities. Just labeling people of color as minorities means that there is a group who is the majority and that naming holds power even if people do not realize it. No matter how many people deny it, race and ethnicity will always be an important part of this country’s history. The method in which this country was built upon the backs of slavery, and how that not only affected sciences that were studied and the laws that were made, but also the financial state of the descendants. There is a group who profits from slavery still to this day even though slavery is not practiced. That along, with laws such as the Jim Crow laws which prevented groups from obtaining loans to create businesses, buying land, vote along with many other social impacts contributed to the science that attempted to prove that one group is inferior to another group scientifically. This shocked me at first, not because of the content, but because it took me almost twenty years to put into words what I have felt for so long growing up in this country.

With that being said, was there a specific moment in your pre-college education in which you questioned what you were being taught? Can you describe it to us?

Not that I can think of. My entire pre-college education I kind of apathetically went through the motions. My goal was to graduate, not learn so I did not pay as much attention to the content I was being taught.

With our country being seemingly more divided now than ever, how does education play into your vision of the future? Essentially, what do you want to teach future generations about specifically?

I envision an educated populous that makes decision for the benefit of humankind, not just the benefit of countries or groups. In order for this to happen, the truth must become the norm. Governments must be honest with their peoples. This will start when the people who obtain those positions in government hold those morals. I hold a firm belief that the younger generation, if instructed in an empowering, engaging, and inspiring way, will have all of the tools necessary to bring about positive change in this world. I want to inspire students to utilize their education in their lives to bring about change that will liberate all people in the world.

Interview conducted by Sam Ruck, Digital Marketing Analyst of JAM Paper

Interview with JAM Paper 2017 Teacher Scholarship Winner


At JAM Paper, we are thrilled to announce the winner of our 2017 Teacher Scholarship. We had the pleasure of interviewing the recipient to learn more about their passion for teaching and how they plan to use the scholarship to further their education. The winner shared their inspiring story of dedication to their students and their commitment to making a positive impact in the classroom. It was truly heartwarming to hear about their innovative teaching methods and the ways in which they go above and beyond to support their students. This interview not only highlights the incredible work of the scholarship winner but also serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and supporting educators who are making a difference in the lives of their students.


What the Scholarship is


The JAM Paper Teacher Scholarship is an annual award that aims to recognize and support educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their students and innovative teaching practices. The scholarship provides financial assistance to help teachers further their education and continue making a positive impact in the classroom. It is a way for JAM Paper to show appreciation for the hard work and commitment of teachers who go above and beyond to support their students.


Benefits of the Scholarship


Winning the JAM Paper Teacher Scholarship comes with a range of benefits. Not only does it provide financial assistance to help cover the costs of further education, but it also offers recognition and support for the recipient's dedication to teaching. Additionally, the scholarship serves as a platform to share the recipient's innovative teaching methods and success stories, inspiring other educators and students alike.


Use Cases for the Scholarship


The JAM Paper Teacher Scholarship can be used to pursue various educational opportunities, such as advanced degrees, professional development courses, or specialized training programs. Recipients can use the scholarship to further their knowledge and skills, ultimately enhancing their ability to make a positive impact in the classroom and beyond.


Alternatives to the Scholarship


While the JAM Paper Teacher Scholarship is a prestigious award, there are other avenues for educators to seek financial assistance for their educational pursuits. Teachers may explore grants, fellowships, or other scholarship opportunities offered by educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies. It's important for educators to research and consider all available options to support their professional development.


Tips for Using the Scholarship


For recipients of the JAM Paper Teacher Scholarship, it's important to carefully plan and utilize the funds to maximize the benefits. This may involve consulting with academic advisors, setting clear educational goals, and exploring opportunities for mentorship and networking within their field. Additionally, recipients can leverage the recognition and support from the scholarship to advocate for educational initiatives and share their expertise with a wider audience.


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2017 Teacher Scholarship Winner


Key Summary:

  • This article will introduce the 2017 Teacher Scholarship Winner and highlight their journey to success in education.
  • Brief overview of the importance of scholarships in education and the impact they have on students pursuing a career in teaching.
  • Details about the recipient's background, education, passion for teaching, application process, selection criteria, impact of the scholarship, and tips for applying for scholarships in education.

Scholarships play a crucial role in supporting students pursuing a career in teaching. In this article, we will introduce the 2017 Teacher Scholarship Winner and share their inspiring journey to success in education. We will also discuss the importance of scholarships in education and how they can impact students' career goals. Additionally, we will provide detailed information about the recipient's background, education, passion for teaching, the application process, selection criteria, and tips for applying for scholarships in education. Stay tuned to learn more about the impact of scholarships in the field of education.

Background of the Teacher Scholarship Winner

The 2017 Teacher Scholarship Winner, Sarah Johnson, comes from a small town in the Midwest where she discovered her passion for teaching at a young age. Sarah pursued a degree in education at a local university and excelled in her coursework, demonstrating a strong commitment to making a difference in the lives of her future students.

Passion for Teaching

Sarah's passion for teaching stems from her own experiences in the classroom as a student. She had teachers who inspired and encouraged her, and she wants to pay it forward by becoming an educator who motivates and supports her students.

Application Process and Selection Criteria

The application process for the teacher scholarship required candidates to submit an essay detailing their reasons for pursuing a career in education, along with letters of recommendation from professors and mentors. The selection committee looked for candidates who demonstrated a strong commitment to teaching, academic excellence, and leadership potential.

Essay Requirements

The essay portion of the application asked candidates to reflect on their personal experiences in education and explain how they plan to make a positive impact in the field of teaching. Sarah's essay stood out for its heartfelt message and clear articulation of her goals as an educator.

Impact of the Scholarship

Receiving the teacher scholarship had a profound impact on Sarah's education and career goals. The financial support allowed her to focus on her studies without the burden of student loans, giving her the freedom to explore different teaching methods and strategies in the classroom.

Professional Development Opportunities

With the scholarship funds, Sarah was able to attend professional development workshops and conferences to enhance her teaching skills and network with other educators. These opportunities helped her grow as a teacher and prepare for a successful career in education.

Real World Use Cases and How To Do It

For students interested in applying for scholarships in education, it is essential to start early and research available opportunities. Look for scholarships specific to your field of study or career goals, and tailor your application to highlight your passion for teaching and commitment to making a difference in the lives of students.

Networking and Mentorship

Building relationships with professors, mentors, and other educators can also help you stand out as a scholarship candidate. Seek guidance from experienced teachers and ask for letters of recommendation to support your application.

Who Should Apply for this Scholarship

Students who are pursuing a career in education and are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students

  • Undergraduate and graduate students studying education or related fields
  • Individuals with a strong commitment to teaching and leadership potential
  • Students who demonstrate academic excellence and a desire to grow professionally

When to Consider Applying for Scholarships

Students should start researching and applying for scholarships in education early in their academic careers to maximize their chances of success

  1. Begin researching scholarship opportunities during the freshman or sophomore year of college
  2. Check for application deadlines and requirements well in advance to allow time for preparation
  3. Consider applying for scholarships throughout the academic year to increase your chances of receiving financial support

Examples of Successful Scholarship Applications

Several past scholarship winners have shared their experiences and how the scholarship helped them achieve their goals in education

Case Study 1: Emily's Journey to Becoming a Teacher

  • Emily received the scholarship in her junior year of college and used the funds to complete her student teaching requirements
  • The scholarship allowed Emily to focus on her coursework and gain valuable experience in the classroom
  • After graduation, Emily secured a teaching position at a local elementary school and continues to make a positive impact on her students

Case Study 2: Miguel's Path to Educational Leadership

  • Miguel applied for the scholarship during his graduate studies and used the funds to attend a leadership conference
  • The scholarship opened doors for Miguel to network with other educators and explore opportunities for professional growth
  • Today, Miguel is a school administrator and credits the scholarship for helping him advance in his career

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Final Reflections

Scholarships in education play a vital role in supporting students like the 2017 Teacher Scholarship Winner, Sarah Johnson, on their journey to success in teaching. By providing financial assistance, professional development opportunities, and networking resources, scholarships can help aspiring educators achieve their goals and make a positive impact in the lives of students. As you consider applying for scholarships in education, remember to showcase your passion for teaching, academic excellence, and commitment to professional growth. With dedication and perseverance, you too can follow in the footsteps of past scholarship winners and make a difference in the field of education.

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