Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Murray.
Ashley, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Education has always been a part of my life. Growing up in Southwest Atlanta, I came from a family of teachers that value education. My grandmother retired after teaching with Atlanta Public Schools for 47 years and my mother also currently teaches. I graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising and began a career in retail management.
After working for a while, I had to admit that retail just wasn’t fulfilling. The best part of my job was servicing customers with children. It was at this time that I realized that interacting with children is what really brought me joy. This realization encouraged me to pursue a Masters in Early Childhood Education at Mercer University.
While pursuing my Master’s degree, I gave birth to my son (now eight years old) and worked as a daycare teacher, later as a substitute teacher and finally a paraprofessional. While working as a full-time teacher, I completed my second Masters in School Library Media at the University of West Georgia and am a certified Media Specialist. Overall, I have worked in the field of education for eight years, six of which I have spent teaching. Education is not just a career for me; it is a passion and a purpose!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My path hasn’t exactly been smooth. I’ve worked multiple jobs while pursuing both of my Master’s degrees. Teaching full-time, owning a small business and being a single mom requires a delicate balance of giving my best to my students while raising and being a role model to my son. I’ve learned to be very organized and manage my time wisely. There have been sleepless nights…and moments of panic…but that’s all part of pursuing your dream, right? Any goal worth accomplishing is worth the effort and I truly believe that educating others is a part of my destiny and purpose in life.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Differentiating Minds Tutoring Service, Inc. story. Tell us more about the business.
Established in 2013, Differentiating Minds Tutoring Service, Inc. was born from a desire to pursue my passion while giving back to students in my community. My company provides a differentiated approach to aid children in improving their confidence, motivation, and academic performance. I specialize in reading, english/language arts, math, science and social studies for grades Pre-K through 5th, with expansion to middle and high school in the near future.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
Honestly, I don’t believe in luck (good or bad). I believe in blessings and trials and tribulations that serve as lessons. I am also a firm believer that everything in life happens for a reason and nothing is by happenstance.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.differentiatingminds.com
- Phone: 4047696794
- Email: www.differentiatingmindsllc@gmail.com
- Instagram: @differentiatingmindsinc
Image Credit:
Headshot: B & P Studio
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
