Name: Maria Benavides.

Subject: English 9

Number of Years Teaching: 10

High School Attend: Volunteer High School

College Attended: E.T.S.U. , Union College

Degrees held: B.A. in English, soon to be Masters of Education.

School activity/Organization/Sponsor: Sponsor of New York trip, Co- sponsor of Annual Staff.

Why did you choose to become a teacher? I love to teach. I also love that moment when a student gets something that they never understood until that moment.

What is the most challenging part about teaching? Getting students to care about their education as much as I do.

As a teacher, what are the most important qualities that a student should possess to achieve success? Determination, hard-working, curiosity.

Your advice to the upcoming freshman: Always look at the big picture, and never settle for average.

What is the best way for your students to communicate with you? Face-to-face or e-mail.