On the way to the UPR Humacao

Written by: Instituto Nueva Escuela

This summer was different for young Johanny Michelle Encarnación Rodríguez, because at the beginning of August she will not return to her beloved Montessori school Alejandro Tapia y Rivera in Lajas.

Now, Johanny is heading to the University of Puerto Rico, Humacao Campus (UPRH), to train as a Biology professional, specifically in Marine Sciences, a passion that was ignited at her Montessori school in La Parguera.

From her school days, she worked with aquaponics systems, conducted field studies, workshops, aquarium visits, and so many other experiences that led her to embrace Marine Sciences. Her school instilled in her a true vocation.

Her entire academic career in the public system has been Montessori education, an opportunity that helped her develop her personality, her socialization skills and lifelong learning.

“What I liked most about my education was the respectful relationship between the teacher and us, and therefore, between us and the teacher. It was a mutual respect. Also, being able to take learning with me wherever I went,” the young woman shared.

She also expressed that she will bring to this new university stage from her Montessori school the respect, values ​​and the constant desire to know beyond what she is taught.

Johanny is a curious young woman who, despite her fears, bravely accepts challenges—like starting university—with the clear goal of teaching children and adults the importance of caring for the environment and protecting what gives us life.

Today, she thanks her Montessori guides for planting and cultivating that desire to learn for herself, as well as for the love, passion, and patience they reflect when working with each student to form good citizens.

"Everything I am and everything I am going to study is because of Montessori," affirmed the now owl.