When I picked my major there was no hesitation. I've known what I've wanted to do since I was in second grade. Of course, I had jumped back and forth for a few years, but I always came back to teaching. Specifically, I wanted to teach elementary aged students. Now at some point I want to get in administration, but for now, my major is Early Childhood/Special Education. The only people that really understand why I enjoy my major are some of my friends, some of my family, and always teachers. But there are those people that just say the most ignorant things about it, and here's what education majors are tired of hearing.
1. "Your pay is going to be terrible."
Do you realize that I might not be in it for the money? I'm in it because I've had teachers that have changed my life and shaped me as a person, I want to be that teacher for my students. I want to be the reason that the strive for their goals, and ultimately achieve those goals.
2. "Wow! You must really like kids!"
No. I'm choosing to spend my lifetime with kids because I don't enjoy their presence. Can you sense the sarcasm? It's there. Of course, I like kids.
3. "Those who can't, teach."
First of all, no. Second of all, it's not those who can't, teach, it's those who can, teach.
4."Do you ever have any homework?"
Okay, so for now in my freshman year, in the first semester, you're right. But, it's going to get to the point where I'll be taking a full course load, plus attempting to find time for field experiences and observations. So, actually yes I do have homework.
5. "You're going to get the summers off. That must be nice."
You're funny. Most of a teacher's summers consist of planning lessons, finding new ways to teach material and setting up their classroom. Actually, quite a few teachers also work another job in the summers, so nope, I don't "get my summers off".
I didn't choose this profession because I'll "get the summers off" or because it was the easiest choice. I chose it because it's something that I'm passionate about. I love kids and I'm so excited to be able to shape the future of our country.
