Mrs. Erica Yamfang is an AHHC teacher here at Herbert Hoover High School and teaches English for both freshmen and seniors, and also teaches AP Psychology.

I think what really makes Mrs. Yamfang stand out the most is how much she cares about her students, not just academically, but more personally as well. Her favorite part of teaching at Hoover is building relationships with students and getting to know them along the way. Whether it’s hearing students talk about their lives, learning new slang, attending their games, or seeing them proud of something they created, those are the moments that bring her joy as a teacher.

She says teaching is the hardest job she has ever had because teachers are always making decisions, adjusting to situations, and putting in emotional, physical, and mental energy every day. She also mentioned that much of a teacher’s work happens outside of school hours without getting paid extra, but teachers keep doing it because that’s how much they truly care about their students and want to support them. I’ve never realized it before but her commitment shows how much effort she puts in.

She also tries to make sure students feel safe and welcoming. Rather than just giving out advice, she wants them to feel seen, heard, and most of all supported. She hopes to help students find their voice, not only in writing but also in life. One piece of advice she’d like to give all students is that high school is only a small part of their future and that it’s okay to not have everything figured out yet. She encourages students to try new things, discover what they love, and find the people who will support them as much as she does.