Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariana Tolobaieva.
Hi Mariana , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My teaching journey began in Ukraine, where I started giving private lessons to young students. I loved helping children discover their abilities and grow more confident in learning. Teaching quickly became more than just a job for me — it was a way to inspire and make a real difference in children’s lives.
After moving to the United States, I continued my path in education and began working in a public school as an ECSE (Early Childhood Special Education) aide. This experience has been incredibly rewarding — I get to support children with different learning needs, work alongside amazing teachers, and learn new methods every day.
My goal is to keep growing as an educator, continue supporting young learners, and eventually become a certified teacher here in Texas.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road definitely hasn’t been easy. Moving to a new country and starting everything from the beginning was one of my biggest challenges. I had to learn a new education system, adapt to a different culture, and improve my English while working and raising my daughter.
At first, it was hard to find my place and rebuild my teaching career, but I never gave up. Each challenge made me stronger and more confident. Working as an ECSE aide taught me patience, teamwork, and the importance of small victories — especially when you see a child’s progress and know you’ve helped them reach it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I currently work as an ECSE (Early Childhood Special Education) aide, supporting children with different learning and developmental needs. My role involves assisting the teacher, helping students with daily routines, building their communication and social skills, and creating a safe, positive classroom environment.
I specialize in working with young children who require extra patience, understanding, and encouragement. What sets me apart is my ability to connect with every child on an emotional level — I believe every small success deserves to be celebrated.
I’m most proud of the progress I see in my students each day. Watching them grow more confident and independent reminds me why I chose this path. My goal is to continue learning and become a certified teacher, so I can make an even greater impact in the classroom.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I believe luck has played a part in my journey, but it’s the combination of hard work and faith that truly shaped my path. Moving to a new country and starting over wasn’t easy, but I was lucky to meet kind people who supported and guided me along the way.
Every opportunity — from working in education to finding a community that believes in me — feels like a mix of preparation meeting good luck. I’ve learned that luck comes to those who stay positive, work hard, and never stop believing that something good is ahead.
