“I want to become a teacher when I grow up.”

This is something that I have always said as a child, something that still holds true, something that is very important to me. I have always wanted to become a teacher, and I cannot wait to eventually graduate from college and live my dream.

Working with children has always been something that I enjoy. I have gained so much experience from working at the recreational camp in my hometown for five summers now. After doing this, I have become very confident that my future career will revolve around benefitting children. I feel that elementary education is perfect for me, and I do not want anyone telling me that I should think twice about it. My dream is quickly becoming a reality and I could not be more excited. This is what I was made to do, it is the perfect career for me.

Over the past few years, I have realized that many people insult teaching as a career. I do not think that there is anything worse than telling someone what my plan is as a college student…That I am an English major in the education program for elementary ed…and having them ask me “Well, are you sure about this?” or tell me, “Don’t do it, it’s not worth it.” Not only are these people out of place, but their words are offensive and hurtful. I am passionate about becoming a teacher, and although it is not a job that is often praised, I still want to do it. I know that it is exactly for me, that it is my calling.

I think that many people fail to realize how rewarding a teaching career really is. Yeah, okay, maybe the pay is not the all-time greatest, but there is so much more to it. Of course, I want to make money and become a successful individual, but I am confident that the money will come and that I will always be content with my job as a teacher. Personally, having the opportunity to educate future generations is so meaningful. As a teacher, I will have the ability to boost the confidence in my students, make them realize their capabilities, and guide them in making significant achievements…to me, it doesn’t get any better than that.

So, to all of those people out there who go around insulting teaching careers, please do me a favor and bite your tongue. There are many college students out there just like me who have a passion for teaching. We do not want to hear others talking down our dream…how would you like it if people were constantly doing that to you? My mission in writing this article is to gain respect for all teaching careers. It is such a remarkable career. Teachers are able to see their time, dedication, and hard work pays off right before their eyes…through the success of their students.

I want teaching careers to be acknowledged as a positive aspect of society, not underestimated. I want people to realize the importance of this career and how influential teachers are on the lives of their students, ultimately the future of our world. It is a learning experience for both the student and the teacher…they both learn so much from each other, and I do not think that there is anything that compares.

Respect teaching, don’t insult it.