I believe that education determines the future.”

Julia’s Story

Julia Ratcliff never imagined herself pursuing a career in education.  She started college at the University of Colorado-Boulder and was on track to become an engineer when she discovered a new appreciation for education and teaching.  “I had the opportunity to experience learning from teachers who really cared about the material and were able to make connections to the real world.”

It was these inspirational teachers who brought their content to life and took an interest in Julia as a person who ultimately set her on the path to becoming an educator. “I understand how difficult life can become and how crucial it is to have someone who genuinely cares about you.” As a teacher, Julia hopes to make a difference in her students’ lives and prepare our nation’s future leaders for the challenges they will face.

Julia has taught in the University of Colorado Boulder’s applied mathematics department.  She also had the opportunity to work with Native American high school students through her university’s Upward Bound program.  Julia believes that it is important to experience every possible diverse aspect of teaching and hopes to teach in a part of the country where she has not previously lived.