Student California Teachers Association

Monica Michelle Masino was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, and raised in both Jackson and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She attended Booker T. Washington High School in New Orleans, but later graduated from Norwalk Adult School with a GED. Monica states, "I didn't make the jump right into college after high school. After bouncing back and forth between cities and my parents, I didn't have enough credits to graduate from high school, so I left. I was enrolled in college three years before I took and passed the exam for the GED."

Monica is the first in her family to attend college and states, "because of my accomplishments, my three sisters have joined the ranks as college students. I may be the first but I won't be the last." She attended Cerritos Regional Occupational Center to receive a certificate in Medical Assistant Front Office while attending Cerritos College for completion of a Legal Clerk Certificate. She later graduated from Cerritos College with an Associate in Arts in Paralegal Studies; California State University, Dominguez Hills with a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master of Arts in Technology Based Education. This fall semester 2002, she will begin her doctoral study at Argosy University in Orange, California.

Monica has always wanted to become a teacher. "I've learned that one doesn't need to be in the educational field to teach anyone." When asked what encouragement she has to offer other SCTA members just beginning their journey she replied "Stay in contact with your SCTA chapter or representatives, renew your membership each year to make sure you are in line to receive the most up to date news/reports on issues that relate to both current and future educators. Remember never give up. It's easy to let life's circumstances get in the way of your dreams but remember there are other ways to accomplish your goals. If your ultimate goal is to teach, then find a mentor or someone you admire in the field. These are the people that can guide you and send you on your way." Monica also suggested future teachers to read the portfolios of other student teachers and those of fully credentialed teachers. She also gives this advice "Stay on track when completing your credential."

Monica's ultimate goal is to teach the Social Sciences at the university level and her current goal is to make it through her doctoral study. She is one of your current SCTA representatives to the CTA State Council. She can be reached at mmasino@juno.com. In conclusion, here are Monica's favorite two quotes:

Life is short, Live! (Monica's mother)

Wisdom is justified by her children. (The practice)

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