Posted on May 7, 2026 by Katelyn Juarez
A Student’s Determination to Teach
Annalise Velasquez
Annalise Velasquez is a determined first-generation college student graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Education with a Bilingual Supplemental Certification. After a life-threatening car accident last November, she pushed through surgery and rehabilitation to return to her second-grade bilingual clinical teaching placement at Gillette Elementary. Balancing recovery with her commitment to her students, she embodies the kind of teacher who builds strong connections and shows up for children despite every obstacle.
Why did you choose The University of Texas at San Antonio?
I chose The University of Texas at San Antonio because of my aunt. She is an alum and a teacher, and seeing the impact she makes as an educator inspired me. She made it feel like the right place for me to pursue my degree.
Why did you decide to pursue a degree in education with a bilingual certification?
I originally thought I wanted to work in child protective services but realized I could make a bigger difference working directly in a classroom. I want to support students where they are and offer them stability and encouragement. Pursuing a bilingual certification lets me reach more children and help them succeed academically and socially.
Could you share a bit about the car accident you experienced and what your recovery process was like?
The accident happened on November 26, the day before Thanksgiving. I don’t remember the crash and only know the details of what others told me. I suffered severe injuries and broke nearly every bone in my lower body, including my ankle, foot, knee, femur and pelvis. I had a large metal rod and other hardware placed to stabilize my bones. Recovery was very challenging and I faced a long rehabilitation process. At one point, I had to make a difficult decision about having the metal rods removed without anesthesia because I needed to return to school and my clinical teaching classroom sooner rather than later. I was determined to get back and pushed through the pain and uncertainty to rejoin my classes and students.
What has your clinical teaching experience been like?
I am placed at Gillette Elementary in Harlandale Independent School District, and I am co-teaching second-grade in a bilingual classroom. Gillette feels like a real community; the students and staff were so excited and encouraging when I returned after the accident. Some of mysecond-grade team members admitted that they did not expect me to come back, but I felt I had to return for my students and for myself. Seeing the students cheer when they saw me walking down the hall was an emotional and affirming moment.
Who has had the greatest influence on your journey to completing your degree?
My closest group of friends had an enormous impact. They took turns visiting me in the hospital, kept me caught up on work, and reached out to faculty to explain my situation. Without their support, I don't think I would have been able to complete the semester and return to the classroom.
What are your plans following graduation?
I have a two-year commitment to the district and hope to remain at Gillette Elementary. The supportive staff and the students make it a place I would be excited to stay.
— Katelyn Juarez
