“It Takes A Big Heart to Shape Little Minds,” James Havens

There are teachers that are in education for the money, which I don’t see how that is possible. There are teachers that are teachers because their mom was, or their dad was, or maybe even because they have been told by many people they would make a good teacher. In reality, the only person that knows what you’d be good at, enjoy doing, and will make a good living at is yourself! Even if what you want to do, what your heart tells you to do, won’t make you a lot of money, that’s okay. If you love what you do and do what you love you won’t work a day in your life!

So to all the Elementary Education Majors...

1. Don’t be discouraged.

Just because someone told you there wasn’t a lot of jobs open doesn't mean that you won't get one. If that’s what you’re meant to do, you’ll find a job! It may take time, but in the end, you’ll be exactly where you’re meant to be.

2. Don’t let school overwhelm you!

I know that’s a lot easier said than done. School can be overwhelming but don’t be afraid to admit it. When you’re in your third semester and it’s getting a lot to handle, admit it. Tell your mom, dad, wife, husband, best friend that it’s hard to handle! But don’t let too overwhelmed where you get burnt out. That’s the worst thing you can do to yourself. When you’re in your second semester and you find it a lot to take it, just know that you only have 3 more semesters. And one of those is just student teaching! You can do this.

3. Don’t be afraid to be proud of yourself!

Tell yourself daily that you’re proud of yourself! Don’t be afraid to ask for people to pray for you, encourage you, and be proud of you. When you have supporters you can do things so much easier.

4. Don’t be afraid if you don’t make friends!

Having friends makes things easier, but in the end, friends aren’t exactly what matters most! When you have friends, you have drama. We all know life is better without drama. When you’re going through college, the main thing is to have your family supporting you.

5. Have Fun!

Education doesn't have to be a long drawn out and boring process! When you’re in school, learning how to teach is a fun thing. When you know that in the end, you are going to change little minds, school is nothing more than job training. When you’re doing your student teaching, get in there and help the teacher, grade papers, teach lessons. Get involved. Most of all have fun!

You're changing lives and shaping minds.