I have always loved numbers.
As a little girl, one of my favorite pastimes was counting as high as I could — sometimes aiming for a million. As you can imagine, that takes a long time. I would get tired, stop, and begin again later. Even then, I was learning something important: persistence matters.
My parents gifted me a small pink calculator, and I loved experimenting with it — pressing buttons, solving problems, exploring what the numbers could do. Some operations made sense; others were simply play. What stayed with me was this: math was something to explore, not something to fear.
When my family moved from Ukraine to the United States, math became a universal language. It crossed barriers when words were still unfamiliar. Even in music, I saw how patterns and structure reflected mathematical ideas. Math gave me stability and clarity during a time of transition.
At UC Santa Barbara, I began as a Computer Science major in the College of Engineering. I quickly realized that the program required extensive mathematics. The courses were challenging — and deeply engaging. Instead of seeing math as an obstacle, I leaned into it. That decision led me to complete degrees in both Computer Science and Mathematics.
The work was demanding. It required discipline, sustained effort, and respect for the subject. It also confirmed something I had known since childhood: math rewards persistence and clarity.
I am now completing my final semester of a Single Subject Teaching Credential in Mathematics. Over the past year, I have taken a full load of credential coursework, completed the Constitution requirement, and fulfilled early fieldwork observation hours. The process has deepened not only my content knowledge but also my understanding of how students experience mathematics — especially when confidence wavers.
Today, my focus is clear: I work to help students build strong mathematical foundations, close learning gaps, and regain confidence through clarity and steady practice. I believe math should challenge students — but it should never diminish them. High standards and dignity can, and should, coexist.
I look forward to working with students, supporting families, and collaborating with colleagues as I continue this journey in mathematics education.