Introduction to Hafiza

Hello my name is Hafiza Karim (Ha-fee-zah Ca-reem). I was born and raised in Chicago, IL. I lived here in Chicago my entire life. Being a Chicagoan you are suppose to adapt to the winters here, not me! I hate the winters here. I often joke that Chicago only has two seasons Summer and Winter, but there's no place like Chicago.

In my spare time I enjoy watching black and white films, water color painting, and giving back to my community. During the summer I like to spend as much time as I can at the beach baking in the sun. I've been thinking about taking up knitting as a hobby; I'm a bit intrigued by knitting currently. I enjoy spending quality time with my love ones as well.

I've been working with children since I was in the eighth grade where I tutored the younger children at my school. I've worked for CPS in the Homeless Education Program for two years. The program ended due to lack of funding which was very unfortunate. I've volunteered at several daycare centers just to get a feel of what goes on in that particular field. I've had some good experiences, and some bad ones. I can honestly say working with children is fulfilling for me. I'm attending NLU to receive my B.A in ECE, after that I would like to get my Master's in Child Psychology. I'm so concerned about the state of mind of the children coming up today. Currently I'm an infant teacher at a center that's affiliated with KinderCare.

I became a teacher because I truly believe children are our future. My passion for children is very strong. I'm currently in the process of publishing a children's book, along with opening my own daycare center.

In the future I look forward to getting married, having children, and owning two black pugs that I shall name Mr. Murphy and Morris. As well as using the knowledge I have acquired to help as many children as I can.

-Hafiza