Determined Educator and Resilient Dream Chaser
After graduating from Annandale High School in 2021 and taking a semester off to work, Heather Garcia embarked on her academic journey, starting at Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) with a focus on Education. In 2022, she moved to George Mason University, shifting her major to Early Childhood Special Education. Heather's passion for working with young children fuels her goal to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in her field. Juggling a full-time job as a preschool teacher, part-time server, and her studies, Heather faces significant financial and emotional challenges. With no financial connection to her family, she supports herself and her educational dreams alone. However, her improved time management skills and determination guide her toward becoming an empathetic educator who sees the potential in every child. Heather's story is one of resilience, ambition, and a steadfast belief in the transformative power of teaching. Her desire for financial support stems from a need to balance the various aspects of her life while staying focused on her ultimate goal of positively impacting the lives of her future students.