"Don't put off asking for help. Ask questions, seek advice, and stay on top of your studies. The best way to predict the future is to build it."
Jesus Gonzalez was born in Worcester, MA and grew up in Weslaco, TX. He took advantage of the dual enrollment classes offered at STC while attending Weslaco East High School. After finishing his higher education with a major in Interdisciplinary Studies and a concentration in Middle School Mathematics, Jesus set his sights on teaching. He is currently in his fourth year at IDEA North Mission College Prep as a 6th grade math teacher.
What influenced you to go into the career field you chose?
When I was in high school, my friends used to ask me for help in math class. I enjoyed helping them understand the material and I felt like I could be an effective teacher.
When did you work at the CLE and how long did you work here?
I worked at the CLE from March 2017 to August 2018.
What made you interested in applying to work at the CLE?
I believed that working at the CLE lined up really well with my career choice. Being able to adapt on the spot and answer difficult questions prepared me for what a classroom of 30 kids would be like.
Tell us a student success story that reaffirmed your love of tutoring. Did this impact your decision to pursue the career you did?
One time I hosted a training for my colleagues on a class that was meant for future teachers in the mathematics field. I was able to help my them learn about certain things that they hadn’t previously learned, or perhaps it had been some time since they’ve learned it. I felt like that reassured me as to why I wanted to be a teacher. I know that I can make a difference in someone’s learning experience.
What have you been doing since you left the CLE?
I have been working at IDEA North Mission College Prep as a 6th grade math teacher. This is my 4th year in the position.
How did working at the CLE prepare you for the career you have now?
Tutoring students provides opportunities for a lot of repetition. When you teach something over and over again, your delivery flows smoother. Being a teacher for the last 4 years has taught me how to be better at identifying what are the key points and possible misconceptions through repetition and practice.
Do you consider yourself to be successful? Why or why not?
I’d say so. I am the first person in my family to graduate college and have a steady career. I couldn’t picture myself being anything else other than an educator.
What advice would you give to new college students?
Don’t put off asking for help. Ask questions, seek advice, and stay on top of your studies. The best way to predict the future is to build it.
What was your favorite thing about working at the CLE?
My favorite thing about the CLE was working with a group of individuals that loved to help. Whether that was helping each other, or helping students learn, the environment was very encouraging to be around.
What would you say was the biggest struggle to overcome in life thus far?
Nothing in life is handed. Every single thing that has happened in my life has a purpose. I can ask myself, “Why is this happening to me?” or I can ask myself, “What is this trying to teach me?” Having this mindset is tough and I may find myself feeling defeated, but I try not give up. I always want strive to do better, even when it doesn’t feel worth it.
Tutor Success Story
Jesse Gonzalez
“Don't put off asking for help. Ask questions, seek advice, and stay on top of your studies. The best way to predict the future is to build it.”