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Clifton Jett, Jr. '20 is an English teacher at his alma materÌýWarren Central High SchoolÌýin Indianapolis, Indiana. His experiencesÌýas a theatre arts studentÌýat the Ã山ǿ¼éÌýhelped shape his career path and gave him theÌýtools toÌýshare his talents with his students.ÌýÌýÌý

What interested you in attending Ã山ǿ¼é?ÌýÌý

I was drawn to Ã山ǿ¼é because it felt like a place where I could grow both personally and professionally. I loved the campus environment, the community energy and the opportunities Ã山ǿ¼é provided for students to build real connections. For me, the Multicultural Center (now part ofÌýtheÌýStudent LifeÌýOffice)Ìýwas home, allowing forÌýan additionalÌýspace for me to be connected to campus resources and network. I wanted a school that would challenge me, supportÌýmeÌýand help me discover the kind of educator and leader I wanted to become. Ã山ǿ¼é did exactly that.Ìý

Were you involved in any activities as a student?ÌýÌý

I stayed active on campus and made sure to be involved in programs that allowed me to connect with others, build leadershipÌýskillsÌýand serve my community. IÌýparticipatedÌýin activities that exposed me to diverse perspectives and helped me grow socially and academically—experiencesÌýthat still influence me in the classroom today. While at Ã山ǿ¼é, I was heavily involved as a student,ÌýparticipatingÌýin theÌýBlack Student Union, Student Support Service (TRIO), the NAACP chapter, Ã山ǿ¼é Theatre, Collegiate Men of Distinction and more. Ìý

What is your current position and how long have you been there?ÌýÌý

I am currently a ninth grade English teacher in Indianapolis,ÌýandÌýI’veÌýbeen in this position forÌýfourÌýyears. I teach with a focus on building strong relationships, creating meaningful learningÌýexperiencesÌýand helping students see their own potential. My role also extends beyond the classroom, asÌýI’mÌýinvolved in mentoring, studentÌýsupportÌýand community engagement in other local schools and programs. Ìý

What’sÌýthe best part about your job?ÌýÌý

The absolute best part of my job is the impact. I love being able to show up for my students, not just academically, but emotionally and personally. Watching them grow,ÌýbecomeÌýmore confident andÌýpushÌýthrough challenges is incredibly fulfilling. Every day is different, every student isÌýuniqueÌýand I get to be part of their stories.ÌýThat’sÌýwhat makes teaching powerful.Ìý

What advice would you give current students who want to get into your field?Ìý

Current students with a passion for teaching others should stay authentic, be patient withÌýthemselvesÌýand lead with heart. Teaching is aÌýcalling. Teaching is emotional,ÌýunpredictableÌýand unbelievably rewarding. Build relationshipsÌýfirst, becauseÌýstudents learn best when they feel seen and supported.ÌýDon’tÌýbe afraid to ask for help, lean on yourÌýcommunityÌýand keep learning. Most importantly, bring your full self into the classroom. Your personality,ÌýpassionÌýand purpose will be your greatest tools.Ìý

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