The Educators Rising’s national student officers tell their personal stories at each general session during the national conference.

First up on Saturday was National Student President Allianna Walters. She spoke to the audience about what led her to want to become a teacher.

If I could tell 8-year-old Allianna that I would be standing right here, looking out at all of you… she would be absolutely terrified. But I know she would also be amazed and grateful that we made it this far.

Growing up, my life was filled with trials. I navigated the shadows of drug abuse, financial struggles, and the heavy daily weight of caregiving for my beautiful mother. Neither the days nor the hours were ever an easy task. But I knew I had to keep moving forward, walking by faith and taking it one step at a time.

I know I’m not the only one who has faced similar battles, I’d like you to think of the battle or the moment that defined you. Maybe, like me, it was a collection of moments that led you to where you are now. I know that through my hardships, I discovered my divine purpose. 

Caring for my mom taught me what it truly means to be a voice for the voiceless. It ignited a fire in my soul for special education, and it gave me a chance to advocate that education is for all!

But we cannot walk our paths alone. I have been given the most wonderful advisors — Ms. Allan, Mrs. Redman, Jose, and Mrs. Carter. When I felt invisible, they listened. When I doubted myself, they saw my infinite worth. Because an educator chose to believe in me, I found the strength to step onto this national stage today.

To the current educators here: You are the answers to your students’ prayers. You are building legacies.

To my fellow future educators: We are the future of this profession. We give hope.

Let my story be your proof that: You, not your circumstances, determine your actions! No matter what trials broke you in the past, you have the power to bring hope to a child’s future. You are the catalyst of change.

What path are you going to go down?

When someone sees your name, what do you want them to remember?

I urge you to decide for yourself what choices you will make and to choose to help others along the way.