Yakking with Yante: Episode 2: Interview with Julie Maru
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Editor’s note: Believed In, The HUB Houston’s blog, introduces a new series, Yakking with Yante! Daniel Yante is a member of the Life 101 program. In this series he will interview different members of The HUB community. In this interview Yante speaks with Julie Maru, a much loved teacher at The HUB High School.
DY: What made you want to be a special needs teacher and why?
Ms. Julie and her Exploring Culture class celebrate Holi, the Hindu festival of colors marking the beginning of spring.
JM: I always knew I wanted a career that would enable me to help people and make a positive impact and I was particularly drawn to the mental health field at a young age. Then in high school I unfortunately have memories of witnessing students with special needs getting picked on. Some of the “cool kids” would pretend to be friendly and invite them to events that didn’t exist, only to laugh at their excitement, knowing that it was never going to happen. This really left an impression on me. I couldn’t understand the lack of empathy. A few years later, as a college student at UCLA I saw a presentation about a clinic at the university that provides therapy to children with Autism. I then began taking related classes and started to intern at that clinic and I absolutely loved working with that population. When I moved to Houston in 2005, I discovered The Monarch School which was my first experience teaching. For my last five years there, I worked outside of the classroom, serving as a therapeutic coach.
DY: If you went to college, where did you go and what did you study?
JM: I got a bachelor's degree in Psychology from UCLA and a masters degree in Educational Psychology from University of Houston. In between those two programs I also took several masters level courses in Counseling before moving to Houston and transferring programs.
DY: How would you describe your time at Monarch?
JM: Before working at Monarch I spent 5 years working one on one with children with Autism in their homes, sometimes in their schools, and also out in the community. I knew when I came to Houston that I wanted to work in some sort of center-based program, rather than being out on my own. I wanted to be part of a team. When I came to Monarch, I loved being part of the community of students, staff, and families. I also appreciated the strengths-based, student center approach. I learned so much in my time there, both as a teacher and a member of the therapeutic coaching team.
DY: How did you end up being a teacher at the Hub?
JM: I had worked at Monarch for 13 years, with elementary and middle school aged children. Like many who work at The HUB, I found Coach to be so warm and inclusive and so strong in relationship development with staff and students. I’ve always loved her energy and stayed in touch when she left to start The HUB. I followed and admired their work for a couple of years as The HUB developed. When the opportunity arose for me to work at The HUB with teens and young adults with staff members I had known and loved for years, I knew I couldn’t pass it up. I was inspired by the strong sense of community at The HUB. It was apparent how much all the members supported one another in the fun times and the hard times and I wanted to be part of that. I was also looking forward to the experience of working with a different age group.
DY: What classes do you normally teach while you are working at the Hub?
JM: When I first started working at The HUB, I was told to think about subjects I’m passionate about because that’s how my students would benefit most. I’ve taught a variety of classes over the years, but the one I’ve consistently taught and always enjoy is a class I created my first year called Exploring Culture. I also teach language arts, community connections, and animal science, and there’s been others along the way. I love the variety of opportunities I’ve had and that we can get creative based on the needs and affinities of our students.
Left to right, top: Ms Julie and family visiting UCLA X2, Ms Julie with Luca at Monarch, Ms Julie looking at new construction at Monarch.
Bottom, Ms Julie and Ms Allison at Monarch (with Liz), Ms. Julie and her family X3.
DY: What do you love about the Hub Houston?
JM: Definitely the people! I enjoy coming to work, laughing every day, and witnessing so much growth. I also love the way the work demands our full presence. No matter what is happening in my life, when I walk through the door my mind shifts and I am fully engaged in our community. I always say that if I win the lottery, I’d still work here for free. I’m not sure most people would say that about their jobs, but I experience genuine connection with staff and students on a daily basis and we always find ways to share joy! Also, witnessing the growth and transformation of so many of our members is rewarding. That includes you, Daniel! I know that we offer something unique and much needed to our community and it’s magical to be a part of that.
DY: How did you end up having the patience of a saint when it comes to special needs kids.
JM: I don’t know that I have the patience of a saint, but I do have a lot of empathy! When a Hubster is struggling I think about how hard that must be for them and I remember that everyone wants to be successful. No one wakes up and thinks, “This seems like a good day for a meltdown!” I think this empathy and perspective-taking helps me have patience and understanding. I try to think about what must be going on for that individual and how I can help.
DY: How do you feel about the Hub being around for about 10 years?
JM: Time flies when you’re having fun! I think it’s pretty amazing and I’m honored to have been part of the journey and look forward to what’s ahead of us.
DY: What are you looking forward to the most in the coming school year?
JM: The social dynamics change every year as new students come in and others graduate or move on to different paths. We have a really fun group of high schoolers this year. I look forward to seeing the journey of our new students and watching the ones who have been around a while step into leadership roles.
DY: What are your future plans for the hub Houston and even yourself?
JM: I think for now I’m just living in the moment and trying to be fully present for it all! I’ve had some recent reminders that life is precious and that we should live it to the fullest and appreciate all who bring light into our lives and do our best to find ways to bring light into the lives of others. Personally, I always look forward to opportunities to travel and explore the world with my loved ones. So, working at The HUB and exploring the world are in my future plans!
