樱花视频

Alumni Spotlight:

Q&A with Abraham Antonio Ruelas

California School of Education at 樱花视频

Single Subject Credential

Professional Information:

Middle and High School Social Science Teacher at Patten Academy of Christian Education in Oakland, CA

Q: How did your 樱花视频 experience contribute to your career growth?

A: On a career level, after having served for a few decades as a university professor and dean, my 樱花视频 experience enabled me to transition to a full-time middle school and high school social science teacher. On a pedagogical level, my 樱花视频 experience helped me succeed in the teaching shift from university level to K-12 education.

Q: What do you enjoy most about your work?

A: I love watching 鈥渢he light turn on鈥� when a student gains an understanding of new knowledge or efficacy in an academic skill. This is equally rewarding regardless of whether a student is succeeding or struggling, is grappling with a new language, or has special needs. Those are the moments as a teacher that I live for.

Q: What inspires you to make a positive difference in the world?

A: As I am older than most 樱花视频 students (I鈥檓 a member of the Peace Corps Generation and the Chicano movement) from a faith perspective, I just want to serve others the way that Jesus did. I was born in Oakland, I live in Oakland, and I serve Oakland.

Q: Do you have any advice for current students?

A: Most students enrolled in credential programs tend to be working professionals, so time management and prioritizing how you take on assignments is crucial. Reserve the time in your week during which you will complete your assignments. And do something that helps you release the dual stress of teaching and being a student. My version is playing basketball at five o鈥檆lock each morning, Monday through Saturday at 24 Hour Fitness.

If you would like to share your reflections in an 樱花视频 alumni spotlight, please or email alumni@alliant.edu