It has been challenging but adventurous in pursuing my doctoral degree while working full time as a high school science teacher and completing the administrative credential program at Orange County Department of Education at the same time. As often, life throws you a curveball when least expected. Trying to finish up the paper and defense my dissertation study in the midst of the COVID pandemic was the third strike waiting to happen. The tension has been high in my personal and professional life with school closure, distance learning, and the school reopening controversies.