Posted May 13, 2022 — A mother of three and grandmother of two, Cynthia Jordan worked from dusk until dawn most days as she pursued her teaching degree amid the pandemic. 

On Sunday, she’ll graduate from the University of Houston College of Education at the top of her class, one of 13 undergraduate students recognized as banner bearers for maintaining 4.0 grade point averages.

“The professors have been amazing,” said Jordan, 45. “I can confidently say I am ready and well prepared for my future classroom.”

To the approximately 500 students in the spring 2022 graduating class, College of Education Dean Bob McPherson said, “Our faculty and staff applaud your diligence and passion as you work to advance equity in education and health during this critical time in our country.”

Read more about the top graduates and their advice to future students in the Q&A below.

Alex Botelho

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I am a first-generation college student. I am from the Dallas area but decided to study somewhere else to get new academic and life experiences. Aside from teaching, I am passionate about music, food, the color red and my fish, Jasper.

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

For the longest time, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. In fact, when I was little, I used to play school with my family and friends. Something I have loved so much already is working with the students and building connections with them. Being able to see the students’ joy and excitement when they are learning is the best feeling in the world! 

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

When I chose UH, I was planning to be a music education major. As we see now, that is not the route I ended up taking, and I am very satisfied with my decision. The College of Education has prepared me tremendously for success in education! I have not only learned so much valuable information but have also been able to make connections with incredible professors and peers that have provided me with so much wisdom and confidence.

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

If there is anything I’ve learned in my college years, it’s that, at any moment, everything can change. What’s important is how you handle the change. Take it as an opportunity to learn and grow! Also, make connections with your professors. Make yourself known by answering and asking questions, participating in class and just showing you care and want to learn. Doing this will make things a lot easier when you need deadlines extended, references or advice.

Larry Chan

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I grew up in Houston and am a first-generation college student. I will be the second in my family to graduate from college after my older brother, who also graduated from the University of Houston. For a long time, I was not sure of myself and not sure if I would be successful going to college. What it took was deciding to believe in myself. As long as I try my best and give my all, then nothing can stop me from achieving my goals and dreams. Now, I am graduating with a 4.0 GPA and within three years of starting college back in spring 2019.

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

I have always wanted to become a teacher to impact the youth and encourage them to be the best they can be. I had amazing teachers, and I want to inspire the youth the same way my teachers have done for me. What I love most about teaching is seeing my students grow and learn. Making them smile, laugh and have fun brings me the most joy, and it lets me know I am in the right field.

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

I grew up in the area, and I kept hearing from others that this college has an amazing education program. From my own experience, I can also say, “Yes, they have an awesome education program!” University of Houston provided me the tools and challenges I need to be successful in the classroom. The support from the professors, counselors and classmates made the learning experience so much easier and enjoyable.

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

I prepared for success by staying organized and utilizing a planner. A strategy I used was writing the due dates of assignments a few days early in my planner. That way, I got assignments done on time or early. Additionally, the extra day or two I was early gave me enough time to check my work and make sure I had done the work correctly. Also, do not be afraid to ask questions, seek help when needed, stay focused, be positive and believe in yourself!

Raisa Dhuka

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I am a proud Houston native and love the diversity and good food Houston has to offer. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering in my community and giving back in any way possible. I am proud to say that I am a first-generation college student earning a Bachelor of Science in teaching and learning from the University of Houston.

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

I decided to start a career in elementary education because I enjoy working with kids and watching them make progress from when I first met them. The thing I love the most about this field is the relationships I get to build with all my students who come from different paths. 

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

They have a great program that prepares you to be an effective teacher in the field. I feel prepared as a first-year teacher because I was allowed to experience being in the classroom for an entire year with my mentor teacher.

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

I would say pick a field you are passionate about, and everything else will fall into place. Working hard and being organized is definitely a factor. However, it’s a lot easier when you are doing something you enjoy.

Denise Diaz Alvarez

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I was born in Mexico and arrived in the U.S. at age 6. I am the oldest of seven and will be the first in the family to graduate with a college degree. Having their unconditional support throughout my educational journey made it possible for me to finish. I could never thank them enough. I owe it all to them.

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

I always knew I wanted to be an educator, to have a rewarding career. I hope to inspire students with similar backgrounds as mine and make a difference in the Latinx community. I want students to feel represented, cared for and hopeful for their future. Connecting with students’ experiences and receiving appreciation notes are what I love the most about teaching.

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

I really liked the education program, and it’s so close to home. It made it possible to balance my personal life and studies. Having a full year of classroom and management experience has given me insight into the challenges and rewards I might face in my own classroom. The professors, faculty and my mentor have also been extremely supportive throughout the semesters. Their shared advice and knowledge make me feel confident and prepared for the career.

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

Don’t hesitate to communicate with the professors for constructive feedback or anything they can assist you with. They listen and support you in any way they can. You must also have discipline, stay organized and know how to balance a personal and social life. They are essential to a healthy state of mind.

Jacqueline Escatell

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I am the second person in my family to go to college. I am the daughter of Mexican immigrant parents. I was born in Houston, and I grew up most of my life in the northwest area. I attended CFISD [Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District] schools, and I did my student teaching with CFISD. It feels great giving back to the district that gave so much to me and my family.

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

Many students may not have a home to go to or a supporting family. I want to make a difference in the lives of all my future students, especially those who need the support the most. Having meaningful work is very important to me. Everyone can pinpoint that special teacher that made a difference in their life.

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

It was always a school I looked up to and hoped to attend. My parents have a local business, so it was important for me to stay home to make sure I was still able to help them. UH has a yearlong student teaching program. I appreciated that because there are so many crucial details I was able to learn in my second semester. Also, it was important to me to see my students’ growth throughout the full school year.

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

I believe if you make school a priority and have good time management skills you can be successful. Having a growth mindset and always being willing to learn will allow you to become a top graduating student. It is important to ask for help when needed and take advantage of all the resources UH provides.

Cynthia Jordan

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I am a Houston native. I am a first-generation college student. I am 45 years old, a mother of three, a grandmother (Gigi) of two, and I have been happily married to my husband Jason for over 25 years. As a seasoned student, coming to college at this age has been a rollercoaster of emotions. Having to remember things from middle and high school from decades ago has been the ultimate challenge. It was also hard having the pandemic hit the year I started at UH. Having to be online and staring at my computer from dusk to dawn was exhausting. However, I was able to overcome it by trusting Jesus and with the support, love and encouragement from my sweet husband, Jason, my kids, family and friends.

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

I discovered my love for teaching as a pre-K aide for LCISD [Lamar Consolidated Independent School District] for seven years before I stopped working to pursue my degree full time. I loved being able to see the students’ first experience in school, and their growth at the end was so rewarding. Making an impact on their lives is what my heart desires — not only academically but emotionally as well. I hope my classroom will leave a lasting impact where students look forward to their future schooling and love coming to school.

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

As a proud Houstonian, I couldn’t think of a better place to be. The professors have been amazing. I received so much support and encouragement from them, making the workload bearable. They prepared me with the knowledge to succeed in my student teaching placement, and I can confidently say I am ready and well prepared for my future classroom. I would also like to add a special thanks to my classmate Lauren Gonzalez for being my BFF/classmate and thank her for all her help through both our journeys. She is a blessing!

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

My advice would be: Don’t procrastinate! Use your time wisely. Use a planner, stay organized and ask your professors and classmates for help when you feel overwhelmed. They will understand and support you.

Kaitlynn Larson

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I was born in Corpus Christi and then lived in Fort Worth until I was around 7, when my mother and I moved to Houston. My mother raised me as a single parent, which certainly presented some unique obstacles. She worked two jobs to take care of me, including one as a Braillist in my elementary school, which is where I first got the idea to pursue a career in education.

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

Growing up, I always found myself enjoying doing teacher tasks in school. In fact, when I was in first grade, my teacher would have me do the class read alouds, and I think that’s where my love for teaching began. As I got older, I saw my mom working in a school and watched my sister and her husband pursue teaching as a career, and it really inspired me. I love hearing about the experiences of other teachers, and I personally have always loved learning, so I am especially excited to help young minds grow and learn in my own classroom.

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

I’ve always had UH on my radar. I started at Lone Star Community College after high school, but once I was committed to pursuing teaching, I quickly transferred to UH because I heard it had a great teaching program. At UH, I met some amazing professors who have really prepared me for a career in education. They have taught me so much and given me the tools I need to become a wonderful teacher.

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

Be organized and work hard. Each semester, I buy a huge calendar, and the first thing I do when I get a syllabus is write out every single due date I have on it. Additionally, every Sunday night, I write out a weekly to-do list of all the work I need to get done so I can stay on top of my work and avoid as much stress as possible.

Jonnicia Lathon

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I am a first-generation college student. I am a mom and a wife. After I had my daughter, I knew I wanted to go back to school to follow my dreams. I have had many hills to climb to get to this point, but I am grateful for every hill and valley because it led me here. 

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

I knew from a very young age I wanted to be a teacher. I was the kid coming home after school, playing school with anybody who would play. I think children need teachers who are passionate about teaching, and I’m glad to be that person for them. I love seeing children grow to be the best version of themselves, not only academically but overall.

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

UH has a reputation of being a great school, so quite naturally, I was drawn to it. There are many resources here. UH prepared me for success because of the many great professors and just the overall support, even in the midst of a pandemic.  

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

Have high expectations for yourself and accept nothing less. You may miss out on fun, but keep your goal in mind, and you will be fine. I would also say take care of your mental health. Do things before the date so you can squeeze in the much-needed time for yourself. College is tough, but you are tougher! Keep God first, and everything else will follow.

Elizabeth Ochoa

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I am a first-generation Mexican American college student. I grew up in the sunshine state, Florida, and six years ago, we relocated to Texas for my husband’s job. Leaving all our family behind was tough. We now have two beautiful children. They motivate me to keep going! There have been challenges along the way, but together with the help of my husband, friends and teachers, I have managed to find a balance and make it  work.

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

I decided to start my career in teaching because of my children. I was a stay-at-home mother for a few years. I enjoyed seeing them learn new things, and that’s when the idea started. Now that I have been in the field, what I love the most is getting to know the students. They are  all unique, and each provides a special contribution to the class.

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

When I decided to pursue my teaching career, I had heard about UH’s teaching program. Friends and neighbors spoke highly of the university. The teaching program has prepared me to take on the role of teacher because they have exceptional professors. They have given us support and encouragement. The yearlong student teaching has made a huge contribution in preparing us. We need to be effective teachers because the future  is in each of our classrooms.  

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

You need to have dedication and work hard. Have a positive attitude and be  willing to sometimes make sacrifices. Make yourself proud, have something to motivate you and  keep going. Anything is possible!

Maria Roman

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I am a first-generation college student and the proud daughter of two amazing Mexican parents. I was born and raised in Houston. Being a first-generation college student and English being my second language has led to many obstacles, all of which I am proud to have overcome. I am eternally grateful for my parents and the support system I have for helping me get to where I am today.

Why did you decide to specialize in health, and what do you love most about it?

Growing up in a low-income community is what inspired me to pursue a career in health. I experienced the many obstacles and barriers predominant in these communities, including lack of access to health care and lack of quality education. I aspire to help those in low-income communities overcome the many obstacles and barriers they face. What I love the most about my career field is the different career paths available and the ability to make a difference in not just individuals but entire populations.

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in health?

What drew me to UH was being able to get the college experience while staying close to home. The diversity and representation at UH made it feel like a second home. UH has given me the opportunity to work with several great professors that are truly passionate about what they do. I have also had the opportunity to intern for BOUNCE with Professor Norma Olvera, who has helped me tremendously in preparing for my career in health. 

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

Find a balance, and make sure to prioritize yourself. I had to work and go to school at the same time, and it is not at all easy. Finding time to do the things you love and spending quality time with your loved ones is absolutely necessary to get through these hard years. Be kind to yourself, and remember that grades are not a reflection of your worth.

Mariam Shammas

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I am a Lebanese American who grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan. I moved to Texas almost 13 years ago after getting married. My husband and I have one son who keeps us busy. My educational journey has been overwhelming at times, with juggling going to school full time, working full time, being a mom and a wife. I am blessed that I have such an amazing support system who helped me through the struggle, the frustration, the excitements and the accomplishments. I definitely would not have been able to make it through without them.  

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

I decided to specialize in this field because I feel the best way to make a positive change in children’s lives is through giving them the best education. What I love most is the relationship I’ve created with each of my students. I also love seeing the students’ faces light up when they finally understand a concept they have been struggling to understand.

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

What drew me to UH is the program. I liked how it was structured compared to other schools. The classes I took, and my professors, prepared me for success. The classes provided me with different methods and strategies to use in the classroom with teaching my students.  

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

Have a great support system, good time management skills and be organized by using some kind of system to keep up all the due dates and requirements, such as a calendar or planner. Most importantly do not procrastinate!

Claudia Solis

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I am 24 years old. I grew up in Rosenberg and am a first-generation college student. I went to Wharton County Junior College and transferred to UH for my last two years of college.

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

I have always had a passion for working with children, and when I was able to start working, I got a job at the YMCA and have worked with children ever since. I love being a mentor to children and helping them grow in their studies. My family has been a huge support system in my passion for teaching and has helped me every step of the way!

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

UH was close to home, and it helped me as I was still able to work while I was in college. UH provided student teaching for a whole year, and it has helped me grow in my field of education. I was able to create lesson plans, attend meetings, teach lessons and gain feedback from my wonderful mentor teacher and site coordinator that have been a huge impact on my life.

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

Make sure your studies are your top priority, but still allow yourself to make time for other things in your life. Anything is possible — you just need to believe in yourself, and remember to never give up, even when times get hard!

Lauren Stolle

May 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Teaching and Learning

Could you please share a little bit about yourself?

I have lived in East Bernard, Texas, all my life. I will be a fourth-generation teacher. Personally, I strive to follow the path God has paved for me, with the help of my loved ones. My family is a huge part of my life and has guided, supported and encouraged me throughout my educational journey, and I will be forever grateful to them.                  

Why did you decide to specialize in education, and what do you love most about it?

My passion is working with children! I love babysitting, volunteering with children’s ministry and working with elementary students. I believe all children deserve a great education, a safe environment and a supportive teacher. My desire is to provide the same for my students.

What drew you to UH, and how did UH prepare you for success in education?

My mother attended the University of Houston at Sugar Land when I was in fourth grade to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. She loved all the UH professors and the program, which influenced my decision to go there.

UH prepared me for success in education by providing me with resources and support. Mrs. Irma Nurre, my student teaching site coordinator, provided me with support, compassion and guidance. She has been one of the biggest blessings throughout my time at UH, and she inspires me daily to be the best teacher I can be. 

Any advice for students who want to become top graduating students?

Keep going! It is not easy. I was told by a principal once to “always remember your ‘why.’” Why are you pursuing the degree? Strive to achieve your goal and purpose, and do not forget to stay organized. Also, do not forget to make new friends and soak in all the information and resources you can. College goes by extremely fast! If you blink, you will miss it.

— By Lillian Hoang

— Photos courtesy of the graduating students