“I relish the idea of devising new teaching experiments and delving ever deeper into the subject, leading to an unparalleled understanding of it. And I genuinely believe this is what I want to dedicate my life to!” says Daria Startseva, who is currently working on her master’s degree in Linguistics at Florida Atlantic University. Here is more about this 1,000 Dreams Fund Scholarship winner, who has such enthusiasm and excitement for teaching languages.

What is your professional dream?

My main area of interest is teaching a second language with consideration for cultural identities. My primary goal is to become a versatile teacher capable of instructing individuals from various countries and diverse economic and social backgrounds.

How will you use the 1,000 Dreams Scholarship?

I want to participate in the TESOL International Convention & English Language Expo 2024 in Tampa. Additionally, I will use the remaining funds to pay my tuition and fees at the university.

How is this scholarship helping you get closer to your dream?

This scholarship has become an integral part of every life I touch, every dream I nurture, and every horizon I broaden. I pledge to maximize the benefits of this scholarship by continuing to work towards the uplift of my students, ensuring your faith in me is well-placed.

The scholarship helps me to participate in a wide range of workshops, lectures, and presentations from leading experts in the TESOL field. By attending, I will enhance my teaching techniques and stay updated with the latest trends and methodologies. Moreover, by interacting with educators from diverse backgrounds, I will be able gain insights into how English is taught in different cultural and regional contexts. This can be invaluable as I am aiming for a more culturally inclusive curriculum.

​What advice do you have for other young women who are wanting to pursue their dreams?

Dear friends, I want to encourage you to always believe in yourself! Trust in your abilities, even when faced with self-doubt or criticism. And remember the most important thing: everything is possible in this life!

​Have you had any setbacks? How did you move past them?

I lost a very close person to me. I would even say that the little girl was a part of me. I believe that in such life situations (when you don’t want or need anything anymore) it’s important to remind yourself that we are here to grow and to learn: to learn how to accept, to be patient, and to work. We are here to grow and fall and then again to grow.

What’s next for you? What is your next goal?

My next goal is to graduate and to start my career providing support and guidance to help other women navigate the obstacles they may face in pursuing their goals. Moreover, I want to give equal chances of getting an education to all of my students I meet and show them that in order to be educated it is not compulsory to be born in a rich family. Overall, by accomplishing my educational goal of becoming a language teacher, I want to contribute to the empowerment of women and help them to fulfill their dreams.