Throughout my years going to school, I had many teachers who 
made a difference in my life. However, there is one that truly stands out. My former high school ESL teacher and now my colleague Michael Chessler did not only teach me English and how to write research papers, he was also my rescuer.
When I became a senior in high school, I had very little knowledge of the college process in the United States. I was lost in the midst of the many students my counselor had under his supervision. However, Mr. Chessler always took time from his lunch period and helped me with my college applications, when he was not even a college advisor at the time. He walked me through the college process and was always willing to stay after school to give me feedback on the numerous drafts of my college essays. Thanks to his guidance, I went to Middlebury College, the college of my dreams.
I will forever be grateful to Mr. Chessler because he did what great teachers do. He did not just see me as one more body to teach a subject to within four classroom walls. Mr. Chessler went beyond those walls on that first floor classroom and exposed me to the great opportunities I had in the future.
Mr. Chessler, I will never be able to repay you for your guidance and helping hand that still today as my colleague and friend you are always willing to give.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
-Luz Brito
Teacher and former student, DeWitt Clinton High School