I believe one of the most important qualities a teacher can posses is being a leader. To me, a leader is not an all-powerful, dictating force. A leader is someone who works alongside those she is leading, serving as a listener, motivator, and challenger. The leader sets the environment and atmosphere of the classroom, and I feel that it should be one that invites thoughtful comments, creativity, and constructive criticism. As a teacher, it is both my job and duty to lead my students in a way that encourages them to step out of their comfort zones. On this page, I have included my teaching philosophy, my role as a program assistant for Auburn's ePortfolio Project, and my work as a writing center tutor. I believe that these artifacts exemplify diverse aspects of my leadership skills, including my ability to facilitate presentations, create helpful materials for students, lead workshops, and collaborate with those around me. My teaching philosophy is centered on my passion to build not only better readers and writers, but also better students that will continue to grow beyond their time with me. I believe that leaders are willing to take on whatever role is necessary of them in order to best benefit the greater structure, and I hope to model this understanding for my students.