Jim Ramirez-Ruiz

Jim Ramirez-Ruiz knows he often defies his students' expectations when they first see him at the front of the classroom in his teaching internship.

"It's a shock to them," he said. "They're mostly seeing Hispanic people in other fields."

The University of North Georgia (UNG) graduate from Lawrenceville, Georgia, appreciates how that initial reaction can open the door for young people to realize they can attend college and earn scholarships.

"They get more insights about higher education, which motivates them when they get down the road," he said.

Ramirez-Ruiz is a prime example of those possibilities as a recipient of several scholarships. One of them is the Goizueta Foundation Scholarship.

Ramirez-Ruiz, who earned a degree in middle grades education with concentrations in mathematics and social studies in May 2023, was part of the Aspiring Teachers Program (ATP). ATP is a UNG College of Education partnership through which the Gainesville City School System pays tuition for UNG students of color who want to be teachers and offers them jobs upon graduation.

Much of his motivation for teaching came from how his first- and second-grade teacher's care and concern for him made Ramirez-Ruiz feel good about himself. Seeking to emulate that approach, he understands his role is not so much about classroom management as it is about forming bonds.

"I try to relate with my students as much as I can," he said. "Once the relationship is built, it helps them learn better."

Ramirez-Ruiz was also able to take the Mental Health First Aid course so he knew how to keep an eye out for students who may be struggling. Ultimately, his goal is to inspire the next generation.

"I'm just trying to motivate them to be the best they can," Ramirez-Ruiz said. "I want them to think at a younger age about what they're going to do after graduation. They can do anything they put their minds to."