When I first found out that I would be a Kenan Fellow, several staff members at my school sent me congratulatory emails, saying that the Kenan Fellowship “opened so many new doors” for them.  I didn’t quite realize what they meant, until I started working with my mentor this summer.  He is so passionate about science education!!  It was energizing to work with someone who wanted to make science interesting for K-12 kids by creating cool events for the NC Science Festival.  Sometimes teachers at my school tend to vent to each other, which creates a very negative work environment.  It was great to build a relationship with my mentor that was so positive and enthusiastic!  He also introduced me to other people at UNC and at the Morehead Planetarium and I’m so thankful to have those connections now!  I truly believe that the best educators are the ones who collaborate often with others.  Because of this fellowship, I have met so many great people and built relationships that will help me become a better teacher in the future.