Emilymari Rodriguez is an ESL Specialist at Alma’s Sarah D. Ottiwell Campus.
What made you decide to join the Crew at Alma?
I joined Alma del Mar because they support greatly their students, teachers and staff members. Their diverse and inclusive environment is what made me fall in love at first sight.
What do you hope to contribute to Alma?
I hope to contribute to scholars vitality, compassion and scholastic integrity. I want them to enter to my classroom and feel included in a positive/safe environment. As a former ESL student for most of my life, I hope to guide every scholar move onto the real world with many Almazing tools on hand, and be ready to face many challenges with excellence and resiliency.
What teacher made a difference in your life, and how?
Mr. Rivera from Roosevelt Middle School (ESL Teacher) is one of the teachers I will NEVER forget. He changed my life and worked tirelessly to introduce the English language when I first came to the United States from Puerto Rico back in 2001. If it wasn’t for his caring and driven support, I wouldn’t be where I stand today.
Why did you become involved in education?
My journey started at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School (2009 Alumni), then I became a Substitute Teacher for two years and moved Into their ESL Department where I worked with ELL students in an academic and CVTE setting. Then, for three years, I co-taught Architectural & Mechanical Design Junior & Senior students a computer-aided engineering design software called SolidWorks where we spent an entire year learning complex mechanical components and implement individual 3D designs of an American Chopper Motorcycle among other fun and challenging projects. While there, the students brought meaning to my life as an individual and an educator. The rewarding outcomes of helping each and every kind of student was just a blessing all around. I have never been happier in my life!
Where did you go to college or post-secondary school?
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and obtained my BA in English Literature and Criticism with a concentration minor in Writing, Rhetoric and Communication.
What did you like about your college?
The diversity at UMass Dartmouth made me feel like I finally found a place where I can expand my horizons to a brighter future and just be myself. UMass Dartmouth made me feel like I was at home.
What is your favorite food?
Sushi, and any of my Puerto Rican cuisine !
What is your favorite book?
Dracula by Bram Stoker