In this thesis, I share stories of my experiences as a high school science teacher, gymnastics coach, and track and field coach and I explore my discovery of the importance of making connections in my vocation. Written in Scholarly Personal Narrative format, I reflect on my own experiences with high school and college athletics I and discuss the lessons that I learned which I find to be most important to coaches and teachers. This thesis centers around making connections with athletes and students as a coach and educator. I dive into my career and highlight the lessons that I find to be most important for myself and other teaching and coaching professionals. The strongest take-away message that I would like my readers to recognize is that teachers who express genuine interest in students’ lives can help them open up and feel like they belong. In turn, a cooperative, collaborative community can form
