Twitter has been buzzing with STEM vs. Education Major tweets, and I'm totally here for those tweets. On that note, I'm also 100% here for the Ed Majors, the unsung heroes of University. Being an education major is a lot harder than cookie cut-outs and recorder practice. Have you ever had to write a second grade lesson plan that incorporates dance and drama into a science lesson? That's right. It is possible.
1. You've gotten the look from any and everyone who finds out your major.
You know the look. It's the "oh, how sweet," puppy dog look if you will. The look that says "I'm going to make more money than you." Nevertheless you power through, you tell the sweet person that you have a passion for kids and learning. You are shaping the minds of the future.
2. Literally everything is color coded. EVERYTHING.
Notes. Planners. Socks. Stickies. Jumpers. PENS PENS PENS. Organization is in your blood, how could it not be? You are prepping for the future! Blue boxes will be for your winter themed books and activities, while the orange and yellow will be for spring games and papers. How are you supposed to control the urge to give all your science classes the green notebook and binder? It just makes sense.
3. You understand the pain of creating a lesson plan portfolio.
"Of course professor, a week of math lesson plans integrated with music and dance activities will be so fun to do!" Ok, yes, it is pretty fun. Lesson plans are also no joke! Planning enough activities to last a second-grade class through a math lesson, while also complying with common core and working towards national standards. In the end, you realize how much you LOVE creating lesson plans that will engage your students and accomplish the daily goal while dancing, singing, creating art and laughing all day.
4. You know your roommate loves you because they put up with your babbling.
Lunch dates usually begin with a long-winded tale of how incredible your methods class was and the fascinating way you learned how kids learn. Clapping and singing games become the norm, along with every tune to every name game. You can't help it, learning excites you and sharing it with your roommates is your favorite way to show it.
5. When you see someone under the age of 10 on campus, you freak out.
"A KIDDO!" The joy that comes from seeing an elementary student is almost the same as seeing a puppy on campus. Your teacher instincts kick in and you just want to ask how their day went. The passion for students hearts you have is so awesome!
6. You get butt-hurt when someone announces that their major is better than yours.
Like, come on? Where would you be without elementary teachers in your life? We get the privilege to nurture the minds of future STEM, English, Education and other university students, that's too cool.
7. Finally, you have a Pinterest board for your classroom that's bigger than your wedding board.
It's ok, we do too.
Go out, sing the name game, and dance the water cycle. You rock, ed majors.
