Social media has always been good at one really important thing: connecting people. Whether you’re out to meet new friends or reconnect with old ones, it always has a way of making it easy to do so. That’s why one woman from New York was surprised to find TikTok sometimes works quickly. It definitely did just that when she was trying to reconnect with her first grade teacher. With a lot of hope and some help, TikTok made her dream come true.
A week ago, Alianna (@virg0sins_ on TikTok) shared photos of herself on TikTok alongside her 1st grade teacher, Ms. Trevino. She wrote in the caption, “Trying to find my 1st grade teacher, Ms. Trevino. We were so close—she even invited me & my mom to her wedding. I haven’t seen or heard from her in years. If anyone knows a Ms. Trevino who taught 1st grade (around 2004 in the Bronx, Holy Cross School), please help me reconnect.”
As expected, the video made its rounds and, within hours, Ms. Trevino herself saw the video! She left an eager and excited comment in response, “Alianna, you found me!!! I just sent you a private message. This made my day!!!!!! Love you!!!”
The teacher, who was more than touched by the gesture of a student reaching out, shared a photo of herself from her wedding day, where her students stood around the beautiful bride in her wedding dress. In front, Alianna could be seen with her other classmates.
TikTokers, who were so happy to see this outcome, commented to share in Alianna’s joy. One emotional response said, “Not me crying over strangers at 6am. This is why I teach.” Another said, “Came from Alianna’s post, wow, TikTok did its thing very fast.” A teacher felt moved by the moment, saying, “Sometimes I consider finding another profession but moments like this remind me why it’s so important to stay in the classroom.”
Alianna felt incredibly thankful for the connection and the people who came forward with their personal stories regarding their experience in the classroom. Since the reconnection, Alianna and Ms. Trevino have had the chance to meet up and have dinner with each other.
It looks like things fell right into place, and a beautiful friendship is spawning in their adulthood. Alianna has said to TikTok, “If this inspired you to reach out to an old teacher, do it. Do it.’
