1. Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from and what were you doing before arriving at THINK Global School?
I was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and grew up in sunny Miami, Florida. I received my Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Florida in 2006 as well as my Master of Professional Accounting from the University of Miami in 2007. I immediately jumped into the world of public accounting and finance, finding my niche and love in not-for-profit related work. I have spent the past 13 years working in accounting of not-for-profits and the business operations of independent schools. Before TGS, I helped start up and open the business office of a large, well known independent school in New York City.
2. What are your favorite aspects of your job?
I bet most people answer “travel”, but I am a total nerd – I love anything that revolves around numbers! Specifically, I enjoy making TGS a reality for so many students who wouldn’t, for socioeconomic and a variety of other reasons, have access to this sort of program and education. Knowing that what I do when I come into my office everyday impacts a child’s life is the the reason I keep coming back.
3. What aspects of THINK Global School’s educational model do you find most appealing?
Learning outside of a textbook. A textbook can only show you words and pictures, but can’t give you the insight that our students receive by living IN the countries we visit and immersing themselves in the cultures.
4. If you could make one major change to global education, what would it be?
Equal education for all.
5. Which of our core values do you feel you most embody, and why?
I have actually been told that my nickname should be Kaizen by another member of our Leadership Team. I never settle for the status quo and am constantly looking for ways to improve our processes and our programs for the betterment of the organization.
6. What is your most memorable travel experience thus far?
My visit to Mumbai, India. Of all the places I have visited, it is the place that left the strongest impression. I have never felt culture shock to the extreme that I experienced it there
7. If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Fiji or The Maldives. It’s my dream vacation!
8. What is your favorite book and why?
The Count of Monte Cristo – I have literally read it 7 or 8 times. Edmond Dantes ability to persevere gets me every time!