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Anijah Lucena’s path to becoming an educator began with something simple but powerful.

The belief that one teacher can change everything.

As an early childhood education major, Lucena found more than just coursework at 91Ӱ��–Lock Haven. She found a calling shaped by professors who lead with passion and purpose.

“They love what they do so much that it pours into their students,” Lucena said. “From day one, they show you how much making a difference really matters.”

That philosophy became real through hands-on experiences, especially in her classroom management course — one she credits with transforming her approach to teaching. Through immersive simulations and real-world practice, Lucena learned how structure and creativity work hand in hand.

“When you have strong classroom management, it becomes so much easier to make learning fun,” Lucena said. “Not just for students, but for you as the teacher.”

Her passion for early childhood education is rooted in the understanding that first impressions matter.

“These early years are a child’s introduction to school,” Lucena said. “An educator can make or break that experience. I want to be the reason a student feels excited to learn.”

But her journey wasn’t without challenges. Like many education majors, Lucena faced moments of doubt in a rigorous program. What carried her through was a lesson that went beyond any syllabus — perseverance.

“I learned I can do hard things, even when my mind tells me I can’t,” Lucena said. “That mindset has guided me through everything.”

Now, Lucena is taking that mindset — and her passion — to Baltimore, Maryland, where she’s accepted a teaching position at Moravia Park through Teach For America’s Teach Corps — a full-time, paid opportunity to lead a classroom and make a real difference with students who are underserved and underestimated.

Despite multiple offers, this opportunity felt like the right fit for Lucena, “It resonated with me and my journey.”

As she looks ahead, Lucena is energized by what’s next — having her own classroom, meeting new faces, and getting the chance to make a lasting impact.

“I’m excited for the challenges,” said Lucena, whose mission is clear — inspire early, teach with purpose, and leave a lasting impression on every single student. “They’ll only make me a better teacher and a better person.”