Despite the devastating tragedies that continue to persist in schools around the country, I have not once questioned my future as an educator. As I imagine many could be deterred from this profession considering the dangers it is now too commonly associated with, my desire to teach has only grown stronger. I find this both surprising and motivating. It has reassured me that I have chosen the right path and given me confidence that I can strive to be as influential as my former teachers who inspired me to pursue this career.

Yes, it upsets me greatly to hear that violence in schools is not changing and has taken the lives of so many innocent individuals. I never imagined that being a teacher would hold the same reservations and "what ifs" as that of a police officer or fire fighter. Unfortunately in today's society, the dangers of these professions seem to be equal. However, we still need teachers. We still need people willing to change the lives of toddlers, children, teens, and adults through education.

I want to influence young minds and develop an everlasting love for learning. I want to make school a safe place again: a place where my students feel comfortable to spend their day and express themselves. As learning is an integral component to development, so is interaction and communication. This is why attending school is so important, especially for young children. They need to experience the school environment to learn formally through structured, curriculum lessons and informally through simply interacting with classmates or teachers. I want to instill trust with the parents and guardians of my students that I will teach them to the best of my ability and keep them safe. This is a vow that I want to make clear, as I believe a teacher is more than just an educator. Aside from the recent events, being a teacher means caring for your students and being a mentor in addition to an educator. Outside of curriculum content, there is so much to teach young children and sometimes, that is the hardest task. However, I know I will do my best to teach my students the information they need to know to succeed in life and be contributing, positive members of society.

It takes bravery in more than one sense to be a teacher today, but if you believe the rewards outweigh the risks like I do, then you're doing what you're truly meant to.