Keith Ann Joy Morace, an elementary education major at Ivy Tech Community College, in Indiana
My career journey began in the mountains of Luzon, in the Philippines, where I volunteered with a health care nonprofit for three years. When I started, in 2017, my role was to assist with medical outreach to Indigenous communities. I was assigned to teach children while they waited for medical care. Sometimes we would have as many as 400 kids at one time.
That’s when I fell in love with teaching. It melted my heart to see how appreciative the children were, especially those who came from disadvantaged backgrounds. Sharing my knowledge with these children gave me such joy and satisfaction and changed my perspective forever.
Sometimes we had to hike for up to five hours to reach remote mountain villages. But every step felt worth it, knowing I was bringing something valuable to children who had so little.
A new beginning
When I moved to the U.S., in 2022, I had no doubt that I would become a teacher. Since many of my college credits from the Philippines did not transfer, I enrolled at Ivy Tech Community College and started my education from scratch, while also getting used to a new country and culture. The adjustment wasn’t easy, but it was the perfect moment to pursue the career I had always wanted. I am proud to say that I will graduate in May with an associate degree in elementary education, with a minor in reading, and will then continue to the next step in my education.
In the U.S., I’ve had the opportunity to be a substitute teacher, working with students from elementary school to high school. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned along the way is the value of mutual respect between teachers and students. Back home, children were more reserved. Here, kids are very vocal and open about their thoughts. But I’ve discovered that if you show respect for the students, even as a substitute teacher, they will respect you in return.
Opportunities with Aspiring Educators
Becoming a member of NEA Aspiring Educators at Ivy Tech has been a game-changer for me. The program introduced me to valuable seminars and networking opportunities, and I was able to meet people who had also come from different countries to pursue teaching. Through the Aspiring Ed program, I’ve been able to build my confidence, learn about teaching in the U.S., and gain hands-on experience as a substitute teacher. Back in the Philippines, a program like this does not exist. Being a member has empowered me and shown me the possibilities that are out there.
After I graduate, I’ll continue my studies at the University of Southern Indiana. I’m more determined than ever to become an educator. I’m ready to share my knowledge and experience with children who need help, just as I did back in those mountain villages.
