The Ones Who Saw Me First

Daily writing prompt

Who was your most influential teacher? Why?

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You never forget the people who saw something in you before you saw it in yourself.

For me, it started in the band and choir rooms—where the air always smelled faintly of brass polish and nerves, and where music was only part of what we were learning. My high school band and choir directors weren’t just teaching notes and rhythms; they were teaching life. These men were a steady voice in the chaos of adolescence—father figures when I needed one, confidants I didn’t know I could trust so completely, and the first people outside my family who made me feel like I mattered.

They didn’t just lead the band and choir; they led with heart. They believed in me when I couldn’t yet see the shape of my own potential. For a while, I wanted to be just like them—to become a band director, to give someone else that same unwavering support. And maybe I still carry that with me, in a different form. Voguegenics might not involve marching drills or sheet music, but the beat of encouragement is still there.

Then there was my 10th grade English teacher, who recently passed—a loss that hit deeper than I expected. She was one of the first to truly see my writing. She didn’t hand out compliments like confetti, which made her praise feel like treasure. She was sharp, witty, and fierce in the best way—and her red pen didn’t miss a beat. She challenged me, pushed me, sharpened my voice without ever dulling my spirit. She had this way of making me want to rise to her expectations, because when she gave praise, you knew it was real. I still quote her frequently in my blogs. Her words are stitched into the very seams of my sentences. I really hope she knew what a gift she gave me.

If Voguegenics has taught me anything, it’s that transformation often begins with a single moment of being seen. Someone else’s belief can become the spark that lights your own.

So here’s to the teachers who changed everything—not with grand gestures, but with presence, with patience, with love disguised as structure and wisdom dressed in red ink. Their lessons live on long after the final bell.

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Dorey Duncan Scott Senior Litigation Paralegal

Hi! I’m Dorey Duncan Scott, a mother of three, wife and fashion entrepreneur. I started my career in fashion back in the early 90’s when I did print, still and runway modeling. I studied Fashion Merchandising, Music Business and Marketing, while also obtaining certificates in such industry-necessary areas such as make-up, styling and runway choreography. In addition, I had work as a spokesmodel for several brands, appearing in print and in person. As a former model, turned senior litigation paralegal, artist manager and on-air personality with a passion for fashion, beauty, and personal development, I bring a unique combination of style, strategic thinking, and legal expertise to my work. My years navigating the legal world have sharpened my attention to detail, while my experience and passion for fashion, beauty, and personal development drives my desire to help others feel empowered and help them in their journey toward self-empowerment. My experience in the fashion world has taught me the power of confidence. 

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