MARQUITA WOODS

FUTURE WORLD EDUCATOR

My name is Marquita Woods, and I am completing my English Education degree from Colorado State University. I'm originally from Memphis, Tennessee, but Colorado has been home since 2015. Outside of leaving the best food you'll ever enjoy in the States, relocating to Colorado is one of the biggest blessings in my life. In addition to my daughter being born here, it gives me many opportunities for personal and professional development.

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My career objective is to become an educator. Secondary English is the first beat of the path. I want to focus my teaching on literacy and cognitive development skills in a holistic approach. During my time here at Colorado State University, I have developed a new way of thinking about my connection to society based on my personal experiences. I grew up in a school system that failed so many students. I wish those families had access to the many different resources offered for children who struggle with dyslexia and other cognitive and neurodivergent disorders that prevent brilliant minds from the chance to grow at their total capacity.

I've worked with children almost my entire life. Being the eldest of eight children, I've learned first-hand about the needs of different learners. I was responsible for ensuring homework was done and enjoyed doing so. That is when I first realized I wanted to be an educator. I later opened up an in-home daycare and tutoring center with a few of my relatives; I worked for Generation Teach, an organization that facilitated enrichment learning for underprivileged youth; I was a part of the Youth Group in churches throughout my life. I've also worked as a Community Advisor supervising international exchange students as they attend high schools in Colorado. During my last assignment, I advised six students from Tanzania, France, Spain, and the Czech Republic. This pioneered my goal of wanting to teach abroad, listening to their experiences and the differences between their home countries. I believe this will allow me to gain knowledge and expertise of other cultures and societies worldwide to help better educate my future students about events and issues and empathize with those who don't look like or have the same access as them.  

My hobbies include blending herbal tea, making body butter and other apothecary items, and traveling with my daughter. After being furloughed during the pandemic, I started a business named after my daughter, Mani Trees, where I sell these products. Being a mother is the best thing that has ever happened to me; it challenges me constantly to be the best version of myself and enhances my problem-solving skills. It also allows me to nurture a future leader of the world. I'm in the process of reviving my writing life. I aim to produce a piece of work for the world before year-end. I also want to indulge in Young Adult Literature to connect better with my future students.