When I tell others I am pursuing an elementary education degree I normally get asked the question, "What makes you want to be a teacher?" For me, that question is challenging to answer because it has a much deeper meaning to me than just, "I want a self-rewarding job working with kids and their families."

So, why do I want to become a teacher?

I believe in the power education has on society. Contributing knowledge to a developing world is part of my job as a future educator. Through teaching, I can inspire my students to understand the impact of life-long learning and encourage them to pursue each one of their aspirations and future goals. So many of my teachers have inspired me to push beyond my goals throughout my experience as a student and I believe it's my obligation to give back to the profession that gave me so much. A world filled with passionate, motivated youth will be the spark of change in our world today. One of the most rewarding experiences will be watching these young learners inspire one another towards success. I can't wait to see my students develop, not just as learners, but also as individuals, who are motivated by challenge and creativity.

I have been so fortunate to grow up with one of the most strong, hardworking teachers I have ever met - my mom. Every time I have been in her classroom, I have watched her students' eyes light up with curiosity and excitement. She makes learning the most incredible experience for her students through her incredibly nurturing heart. I have witnessed the perseverance and drive she has for education through her endless stories, but also watching her come home in tears on the harder days. Although teaching is an incredibly rewarding occupation, it also comes with many challenges and opportunities for reflection. But even on days where my mom walks in the door exhausted, she never stops expressing the love she has for her students, as well as her job.

There is something so special about the impact an educator has on a young learner. My first grade teacher, Mr. Miller, had a remarkable impact on my life as a student. He had a passion not only for the importance of learning, but also the relationship he built with students and families, which is why he touched my heart as a first grader. He was one of the many teachers that inspired my love for learning and education. His unique teaching style established the most welcoming, accepting environment into his classroom. Mr. Miller made sure each student in his class felt important and appreciated through the connection he built with them. As a future teacher, I will strive to take his approach to provide my students with the most encouraging, caring environment as he still does for all of his students.

So my answer to this question is not so simple, but the most efficient one I can give is - I have been inspired to contribute to a profession that makes such a remarkable difference in the lives of young students. I will never regret my decision to pursue an elementary education degree and I can't wait for the first time I get to greet my passion-filled young learners at the door of my first classroom.