'Teaching is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling jobs'

Sharon Park's years of hard work were recognized during the fall 2016 Commencement, when she was named one of three First Honor Graduates for the University of Georgia.

Park, who graduated with a degree in early childhood education, has always given her best when it comes to school work. Now, she said, she will be able to fulfill her dream of being a teacher and helping children achieve the same level of success.

Being a First Honor Graduate means you have received a perfect 4.0 grade-point average throughout your time at UGA.

"I am so excited to be a First Honor Graduate," said Park, who also graduated from high school with honors. "It is such an honor to be recognized for the hard work I put into my major and I attribute this to God's work in my life."

She has always loved children, she said, and being a teacher fulfills a life-long dream.

"Ever since I was a child, I wanted to be a teacher," she said. "To me, teaching is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling jobs because I get to be a part of children's growth. I believe childhood is the most critical period of personal development and I feel like God wants to use me as a teacher to guide children's minds and hearts in a wonderful way."

After graduation, Park, who is from Duluth, Georgia, planned to visit family in Korea and then return to the states to begin her teaching career.