Master of Arts in Teaching, 2012
School of Education
August 1, 2012
“In each country (Morocco, Sweden, United States), I encountered mentors, educators, and advocates willing to help me.”
Rwaida Alshagra Scott is a student in the UC Irvine Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)/Credential program. Rwaida received her B.A. in Global Sociology from George Mason University. As a MAT student, she has been awarded the Laura Settle Scholarship.
Rwaida shared the following remembrances of her educational journey to UC Irvine.
Originally from Iraq, I spent some of my childhood in Morocco but most of my childhood in Sweden before my family immigrated to Virginia.
My early experiences included efforts to adjust to the expectations and requirements of radically different educational systems on three continents (Africa, Europe, and North America) and also included various forms of emotional, psychological, and even physical turmoil. Yet, in each country I encountered mentors, educators, and advocates willing and available to help me. These were the educators who encouraged me to succeed by instilling confidence, allowing creativity, and teaching understanding.
The diverse experiences I had in three countries’ educational systems, which varied in almost every way, taught me the importance of wise, caring educators who guide children through the complexities of society. Today, I feel in my heart that it is my duty to return these priceless gifts that I received by helping students with diverse backgrounds feel welcome, and inspiring children to become positive influences on one another and on the world as a whole.
My life and passion for education led me to abandon a public relations career in Washington, D.C. and pursue teaching through UCI’s Master of Arts in Teaching/Multiple Subject teacher credential program. I truly believe that all children can be high achieving, given the right opportunities, positive learning environments, and the right venues of support.
I am honored to be selected as a Laura Settle Scholar and excited to use this scholarship to enhance instruction and learning in my 7th grade classroom this fall.