In her mid-20s Tami realized the corporate world wasn’t for her. Newly graduated from business school, she started her first job in retail and discovered she had yet to find her true calling. Contemplating her next steps, it was an ad on the radio that sparked her interest.

“When a special education student enters your classroom, they enter your life.”

For the past 26 years, Tami has taught special education junior high math. “My favorite thing about the job?” Tami said, “It’s the kids, of course it’s the kids.” With her bright blue eyes and warm smile, Tami has a passion for getting to know people and exploring new places. Her face lights up at the mention of interesting riders she’s met, her recent trip to the Utah desert, and the students she works with every day.

As a full time teacher, mother of two teenage daughters, and wife, Tami keeps busy, but she wanted something that was all her own. “The money I make driving with Uber is my money. It’s the income I spend however I want. I don’t care much about owning new things, so I set it aside for traveling and creative projects around my house.”

“That’s why I love driving, I get to discover new roads – and meet new people – all the time.”

Aside from saving for upcoming trips and home improvement projects, Tami was drawn to Uber because she knew she’d meet new people every time she drove. “I love to get to know people and hear their stories, and I’m happiest when I’m discovering new roads.”

Having spent a good portion of her life in the classroom, Tami is itching for her next adventure. “Some days I just want to pack up my life, move to a new country, and teach. Other days I’m drawn to politics and activism for education reform. I’m ready for the next big thing, whatever that is.”

No matter where she goes next, you know she’ll make friends along the way. “It’s a trait my family always makes fun of. I talk with everyone. If I meet you, I want to know your story.” It’s one of the reasons she loves driving with Uber. “My favorite thing about driving is the people I meet. I’ve become a therapist/mom/driver-partner, and I absolutely love it.”

See Tami featured this month in Seattle Met magazine’s Face of Seattle series.