I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher from the very earliest memories that I have. I grew up in a very small town of about 300 people, so everybody knew everybody. I had so many influential teachers along the way that took the extra effort and time above and beyond their duties and contracts. I had some difficult times during my high school years but with the help of a magnificent person, I made it. This teacher was my high school science teacher. His name is Tom Epling. He made science so hands-on and fun. He didn't give us the answer he made us think and explore to find out our own answers. He always had time to listen to any one of us. He often helped us with other projects. He would teach us how to develop pictures and teach us the science behind it all while making it fun and interesting. This man was very well-liked by all of his students and community because he cared about all students.