Melissa has worked in English language learning (ELL) instruction her whole career, starting with her experience as a corps member in the South Bronx. She now works to strengthen the inclusion of ELL students and students with disabilities in NYC charter schools.

The benefits of doing Teach For America extend to both your professional and personal life. Teaching in the corps, Kristopher Lewis Sr. (Greater Baton Rouge, ’18) gained highly transferable skills in management that prepared him for his role as an executive director.

Anjali Malipatil lauds her time as a middle school science teacher for preparing her for a career as Executive Director of Philanthropy and DEI at PDT Partners, a global investment manager that funds strategic grants and projects for nonprofits and schools.

Following the corps, Rebecca joined the Sexual Trauma Awareness & Response (STAR) organization, where she spent 10 years focused on education and sexual violence prevention. She reflects on how her work ties to TFA's mission and values.

Ryan Pavel served in the U.S. Marine Corps before teaching high school students in Detroit. He now leads the Warrior-Scholar Project, empowering veterans to succeed in higher education.

A little roadblock didn't stop Teach For America alum Sydney Phillips from pursuing a career focused on equity.

After advocating for Dallas students as special assistant to the superintendent and as Dallas director for Stand For Children, Miguel became the youngest person to be elected school board president at 28.

Destany Story was inspired to join Teach For America and become a teacher by the profound impact her TFA teachers had on her. She is a Memphis 2019 alum who still walks in her purpose today of empowering others.

Taylor Toynes is the founder and executive director of For Oak Cliff.

Teach For America alum Daniel Velasco works to make education equitable for multilingual learners.