Ever since I was little I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up. I was all over the place. In kindergarten I wanted to be a ballerina, then in second grade I wanted to be an archeologist, third through fifth grade I wanted to be an artist and a writer, and in middle school I wanted to be a professional athlete or actress. I've always wanted to be a little bit of everything, there's always been something in each career that I loved. When I finally decided what I wanted to go to college for, what I wanted to be when I grew up, it was a big deal. Becoming a future educator is something that I am proud to say I am majoring in. However, I've found out that not everyone feels the same about teachers as I do.
I've realized that most people do not value education majors. I've gotten confused looks when I've told others that I'm majoring in education and questions like: "are you sure you want to do that?" I understand you mean well when asking this question, but it's offensive. Yes, I'm sure I want to do that. It's not the most glamorous job in the world but it's something I'm passionate about. Or the other question that really gets me is "you know you're going to be broke, right?" I know that a teacher's salary is never going to be six figures, but I'm not becoming a teacher for the money. I'm doing it because teaching is something I have always loved to do, even when I didn't realize it. I remember playing school and trying to teach my sister how to do multiplication, which I had learned that day. I didn't know how to teach her multiplication but I tried. I have always enjoyed coaching and helping others reach their full potential. Becoming a future educator isn't about the money, it's definitely not about the glitz and glam, it's about helping children to reach their full potential.
I know that there will be days I can't stand the children in my classroom or have trouble with a parent, but isn't that how all jobs are? There are days you would rather be anywhere else but at work. There will be days I'll regret my career path and wonder why I thought becoming a teacher was a good idea. I know there will be bad days. I also know there will be days where there's nothing else I'd rather do. There will be the little moments when a child finally gets it and their eyes light up because they are having fun learning. Those days, those moments are why I'm becoming a teacher.
I get it when you ask me why I would ever want to be a teacher, kids are crazy and out of control. I understand that some people hate school because of a teacher or a terrible experience they had. Us teachers know we won't make a lot of money, we know we will be under appreciated and we know there are going to be rough days. We also know why we picked this career so please, don't ask me if I'm sure I want to do that, because I'm most definitely sure.
