Recently, I had the chance to interview Ms. Abreu, the new entrepreneurship teacher on campus. She has been teaching for nearly 2 years, and I had a great experience taking her class. She is a coach for the lady chiefs soccer team, and she aims to open a school store next year. I asked her a few questions to get to know more about her career and personal life.

What do you like most about teaching?

Ms. Abreu: I enjoy helping students and getting to know them.

Is there anything you don’t like about being a teacher?

Ms. Abreu: Lunch is too short.

What are your hobbies?

Ms. Abreu: I like playing soccer, participating in races, trying different activities and spending time with my family.

How did you approach teaching?

Ms. Abreu: I have a passion for helping others and try to adapt to various learning styles.

How do you encourage students to take the entrepreneurship class?

Ms. Abreu: By establishing a student entrepreneur hub, integrating real-world business scenarios into the curriculum and going on field trips. Promoting entrepreneurship in schools is essential for preparing students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

What do you like most about teaching entrepreneurship?

Ms. Abreu: The diversity. I love to hear and see what each student has to think and say. I believe each and everyone is unique and has a special talent. This class gives them an opportunity to expand their mindset on what they can achieve.

What would you do if you were not teaching?

Ms. Abreu: I would run a hair salon business or start up a pet supply store, and start an organization for animals in need. I have a big heart for animals! 

Fun fact:  Ms. Abreu was a vendor for the Animal Rescue in Palm Beach County.

If you were an animal, what animal would you be, and why?

Ms. Abreu: I would be a dog, because they are loyal, supportive, and give unconditional love.

What is one quote you want to share with students at Santaluces?

Ms. Abreu: “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”

What is one quote you would go back and give to yourself when you graduated from high school?

Ms. Abreu: “You change the whole world by being yourself.”

How do you compare students in high school when you were a student to students now? 

Ms. Abreu: We were more disciplined back then.

How do you connect your class to real-world situations and experiences?

Ms. Abreu: By using real-world examples, project-based learning, field trips, and research projects.

What has been your most rewarding moment as a teacher?

Ms. Abreu: When students look up to me. I become their safe place and someone they feel they can talk to.

How do you build relationships with students?

Ms. Abreu: When I have real-life talks with them.

What is the biggest challenge that you’ve faced while teaching?

Ms. Abreu: My biggest challenge is when kids don’t want to learn.

What is the most important skill that you want your students to walk away with?

Ms. Abreu: When you have a strong mindset, it will not only inspire and motivate you, but it can also boost your happiness and productivity in all areas of life.

What inspired your fashion style?

Ms. Abreu: I dress to feel comfortable and hip.

What are some fun facts about you that you think students don’t know?

Ms. Abreu: I have played soccer my whole life. I have 5 pets. I have worked in the fashion modeling industry, barber shops, and have worked as a maritime auditor (DPA) for ships.

Interviewing Ms. Abreu was a great experience. If you have any questions about opening a business, don’t be afraid to stop by her room in the 4000 building, room 4105. She is very welcoming and always open to questions!