Deven Pandya - Stanford University

I have worked with kids of varying socioeconomic statuses and cultural backgrounds ranging from an ESL program in downtown Richmond to local public high schools to private high schools. In that process, I have learned to cultivate a relationship with many students to the point where I'm ecnouraging a love of learning rather than teaching them how to do a specific problem. In turn, they are grateful for tutoring because it provides them with an opportunity to learn, something that is taken for granted too much in modern society.

I have had the privilege of living a life where education has always been prioritized, but many underserved communities lack the infrastructure to provide kids with the necessary education for success in life. If my work is even a small fraction of igniting a love of learning within a student or enabling them to see the possibility in their dreams, I am happy.