March 15, 2024
By Tessa Chilton
Flor Ramos, a first-generation Mexican American, is making her family proud by pursuing her passion for teaching in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) at the University of Louisville.
As a Louisville, KY native Ramos witnessed her parents’ sacrifice so that she could be the first in her family to attend college. Choosing UofL was an easy decision for Ramos due to its proximity and diversity.
Despite her determination, Ramos faced challenges adjusting to college life, feeling lonely and questioning her career choice. However, her perspective changed after connecting with staff, faculty, and the Multicultural Teacher Recruitment Program. These connections and her work in the classroom helped her discover her spark.
“I realized that teaching is where I’m meant to be,” said Ramos. “The only thing that kept me going was helping students and seeing their smiles.”
Ramos’s journey took a significant turn when she was awarded the first-generation, Oakie and Sue Shearer Memorial Scholarship, which will allow her to study abroad on the annual International Teaching Experience in Belize this spring.
“After seeing photos from past trips, all I could think about was my parents in Mexico, who had to drop out of school to provide for their family,” she said. “After that I knew I wanted to be there so that I could connect with those kids.” The scholarship will help fund her travel expenses for the abroad opportunity.
“I realized that teaching is where I’m meant to be,” said Ramos. “The only thing that kept me going was helping students and seeing their smiles.”
Now a junior in elementary education with an individualized track in health and wellness, Ramos plans to teach in a low-income school in Louisville after graduation so that she can give back to her community.
“I realized how little my own education experience up to college supported me,” said Ramos. “I want to be the person for others that I felt like I needed when I was a kid.”
Ramos is also involved on campus in Diversity Student Ambassadors and the Kentucky Educator Association.
“None of this would have been possible without UofL, and I’m going to make the most of it while I’m here. I would encourage others to do the same.”
About the College of Education and Human Development:
Founded in 1968, the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) is a vibrant community that prepares students for leadership in a variety of metropolitan settings including schools, public and private corporations, and governmental agencies.
CEHD embraces the University's mission to advance the intellectual, cultural, and economic development of our diverse communities and citizens. Our commitment to student success is unparalleled as we promote the highest levels of learning and social, emotional, and physical health and well-being for all children, individuals, and families.