Many of you who have been following my journey know the mental and emotional struggle I went through in 2023 when I decided to leave public school teaching. At the time, I felt like a failure and a little lost on my path. I truly loved teaching and my students, but the system itself was crushing my soul.
I swore off any kind of “traditional” teaching and thought I’d never step foot in a classroom again. Yet… here I am.
This past summer, I finished my first semester teaching silversmithing at the local community college, and I just started the fall semester—and I LOVE it! For the first time, my two passions—education and jewelry—have come together in the most natural way.
Yes, I’m still working within a system that has its flaws, but the difference is huge. I get the freedom to design projects that excite me, no endless communication with parents and administrators, and the space to build genuine relationships with my students. Watching them grow in this craft—and often inspiring me to push outside the box—has been incredibly rewarding.
Looking back, I’m so glad I kept an open mind after leaving teaching. I could never have imagined finding a job that combines everything I care about so perfectly.
The best part? It’s only part-time, which means I still have plenty of time to create and share my own jewelry with you.
Life has been hectic with the move, the start of school, and markets, but I’m so grateful you’ve stuck with me on this journey.