Thank You For Being Such A Vital Part Of Our Team, Tacara. We Look Forward To Sharing More About You So Others Can Get To Know You Better!
Tell us a bit about your backstory and what lead you down your current life path.
I’ve always had a passion for working with children, so when I was in high school I took a two period class that allowed me to be a preschool teacher at school and I love it. That moment was the beginning of my career and I stuck with it. Once I went to college originally I only babysat, then I met a lady that had her own daycare and I worked there my entire college career. Once I graduated, I knew I wanted to have my own preschool one day; so when I moved to Chicago, I took a class to be able to open one. Ever since I have been working towards that goal.
What is one thing you are most proud of achieving in your life?
I am most proud of not achieving a degree but my entire college career I only made one C. For me that is amazing, college was challenging. I even worked two jobs, tutored, and babysat but still managed my grades. I graduated on time with a major and minor. I also grew lifelong friends and learned so much.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?
I would have to say thank you to my mom and my grandma. These two were my “push” through college and my motivation. They were always there when I needed them the most, they helped me graduate. When I was down, they pushed me and always did what they could to let me know I could do this. Even today they are a phone call away; it’s nothing I could want for that they wouldn’t try to do. My immediate family is who got me where I am today and who made me who I am.
What do you enjoy most about teaching/tutoring, Tacara?
I most enjoy seeing the progress. It makes me proud and happy to know that I am making a difference, that one day this child may not need my help anymore. That is always the goal. I also enjoy seeing the parents happy and comfortable with my style of teaching. Children are the most fun, so I always enjoy the seeing how different each of them are.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I like to try to learn new things. I have been learning Spanish, molding clay, sewing, and more. Molding is my favorite things to do right now I love making things that are meaningful to those close to me. I also love to take naps, they are favorite. I can sleep through almost anything and it refreshes me.
Tell about an amazing trip you took. Where did you go and what did you enjoy most?
I once spent a month in San Diego, California. I went there to explore and I loved it. San Diego is absolutely beautiful. I mostly enjoyed the beach and the activities we did there. We rode jet skis, which was funny because one of my friends can not swim and was truly scared; but once he learned to ride, he didn’t want to get out the water. They also had a bouncing house in the water with obstacle course. We spent almost everyday at the beach.
If you were granted three wishes, what would they be and why?
Of course, I would first ask for more wishes because I wouldn’t want to run out. I would wish for money as well so I can help not only myself but my family and those in need. I want to be able to do things that will change people lives and actually help them get on their feet. Lastly, I would wish to be able to see my sister because she passed away so unexpectedly and I wish I could’ve said goodbye.
Is there something exciting you are working on now? What is it and why did you choose to start it?
I like to call myself a Jack-of-all-Trades because I can do almost anything since I learn really fast. I am now working on my own business. I chose to start this because I knew I wanted to have my own business, but my original plan to start a daycare fell through once COVID hit. With this company I hope to expand and still work with children in some way because that is what I enjoy. I always wanted something of my own and to work for myself – so this is exciting for me.
The road to success is difficult and requires tremendous dedication. What advice would you give to a young person who aspires to follow in your footsteps and emulate your success?
Be yourself. No matter how many times you change that is ok. Have confidence in yourself and who you want to become because it will come true for you. Try to surround yourself with positive people that would push you to be your best self. Invest in yourself it’s worth it.
Please share your favorite Life Lesson quote. How is it relevant to your life?
I would say “Never give up.” Simple but meaningful! There were so many times I lost confidence in myself and my abilities, and I use this to keep going. This shouldn’t always be easy; we need challenges to grow, so you have to push through them. As life continues there will so many more obstacles and trying times that I just have to never give up. This is something that will always stick with me and let me know I got this when I need a little push.
