This semester, I took a class that required a field placement. I'm required to attend a class at a local school each week and to give lessons. For the past three years, I've been so nervous for this kind of thing. Student teaching terrified me. The idea of being responsible for future generations' educations terrified me. And if I'm honest, it still does.
But this field placement has been one of my favorite parts about this semester. Each week, I get to see a wonderful, intelligent class full of driven students with bright futures. Each week, I get the opportunity to give a lesson, to practice teaching, to pass on knowledge and gain some myself. It's truly beautiful.
Although I still feel awkward as I begin my lessons, looking down at my 11th graders who are only a few short years younger than me- with my voice shaking, uncertain how to begin a lesson gracefully- I soon engage my students in a conversation about literature that I couldn't have even dreamed that I'd be facilitating. My students put a smile on my face every time I hear their insightful responses to my questions about literature. Every time, I leave impressed with them. I wish I could be there every day instead of having my university class this semester. Yes, it's early in the morning. Yes, lesson planning can take hours. Yes, I have to wear professional clothes instead of the more comfortable clothes I might wear to class.
But it would be worth it.
I was afraid throughout my college years that I would not like teaching. But now that I've taught and seen what these students are capable of, I understand why most teachers love their jobs. It is so fulfilling when a student gets a concept you are teaching. It is beautiful to see these students with such bright minds and knowing that they will someday lead our world.
I know that not every class will be as driven, respectful, or contribute as often as the class I have now, and I know teaching will always be a challenge in some way or another, but it's a challenge I want to take. I am so thankful for my students for such a wonderful experience, and if I am not able to student teach with them next semester, I'll miss them very much. I'm so grateful that they welcomed me into their classroom.
In time, I know that teaching will feel more natural to me, and I won't stumble over my words. I know student teaching will be difficult. But I'm excited to student teach. I'm excited to inspire and by inspired by the minds of my future students.
