I’m writing this letter to thank my cosmetology teacher for having faith in me, even when I was at my lowest. You didn’t know me well going into sophomore year, but you knew of me.

Sophomore year I wasn’t confident in myself, never mind the work I would submit to you. You got to know our class more and more throughout our four years at UCT. Out of all my teachers, I never met a more caring woman in my entire life. You loved to teach, not just cosmetology, but life lessons. You’ve taken the time to pull me out of shop, to ask me why I wasn’t acting myself. You told me over and over how important and special I was.

You continuously told me you were proud of me, even when I felt like I failed myself. You gave me the confidence to join SkillsUSA , and practiced updo’s with me until my fingers hurt. Over time, I developed my skills as a cosmetologist, and eventually got my license. Thank you for those “life skills” meetings where we came up with healthy ways to communicate with people. I appreciate the sentimental moments in the locker room, where we would give group hugs to whoever needed it at the time. There was one time I will never forget, and I hope you don’t mind me sharing this experience with everyone else. It was senior year, and we were about to graduate. I was extremely upset about life, and how luck just wasn’t on my side.

You sat me down in the corner of the shop, right next to the window that overlooked the Bourne Bridge. You held my hands, and looked directly into my eyes. You told me that I had a negative attitude lately, but said you didn’t hold it against me due to the circumstances. You told me that you were so proud of me, and that I had gone through more than many of the classmates around me have had to. You told me that I was strong, and that you wanted the best for me. You turned your chair and told me to look outside. You told me to point out positive things that I saw outside. I mentioned the beautiful weather, and how there wasn’t traffic on the bridge. You turned around, and told me to find something positive in every day, no matter how crappy I felt. You started crying and it proved to me that you really did care about me. You cared whether I succeeded or not. The feeling I got from our talk has stuck with me ever since that day.

You left a permanent mark on me, that I will never forget. You were the first person to believe in me, and show unbelievable compassion. I will always thank you for giving me the courage and strength to be where I am today. I wouldn’t be in college, accomplishing my dream of being a nurse if it wasn’t for your encouraging words. I know you’re a teacher to some, but you’re a hero to me. You go above and beyond your job every single day, to make sure your students succeed in life… not just in your class. So thank you for believing in me, and being the best teacher I ever had.

Love you Mrs. H,

Maia Rogers