As a student majoring in English Education there are quite a few phrases I am used to hearing. "Oh, so you want to be a teacher?" is an extremely common one, usually said with a look of concern or discontent. "You're never going to make any money", "There aren't really a lot of jobs right now, does that scare you?", "Guess you didn't really know what you wanted to do, just picked a major, huh?", "Those who can't do, teach. Am I right?" chuckle chuckle. So just a public service announcement to all those people who say all those ridiculous things and brush them off as light hearted humor, it's annoying and discouraging so please stop.
Yes, I know that there isn't a surplus of jobs for educators right now, but are there really a lot of jobs anywhere? Yes it scares me. No, that does not mean that I am going to change my major.
Trust me, I've looked into the starting salary for teachers, yes I know that on average a cable repairman makes more than a new teacher. Have you ever thought that there are more important things in life than money? Have you ever thought that I would rather live modestly and happy than miserable and rich, dreading going to my job everyday?
I know what I what to do, hence why I am doing it. I didn't just pick education as a back up major, it wasn't something I settled on. I have wanted to be a teacher for as long as I can remember. I am passionate about it, it excites me. Call me green, or naive, but I think I can make a difference, I think I have the ability to help mold the future minds of America. That isn't something that you choose as a backup plan.
By all means, if you think you can become an educator because its so easy in comparison to actually "doing something" go right ahead. Please show me how easy it is to just become a teacher, and work with 30 students in a classroom who all have different needs, different skill sets and different experiences.But, future teachers of America, worry not. Even though there are tons of these people out there, who doubt us and look down on us because of the profession we have decided to pursue. There are countless students who will be thankful that you decided to become a teacher. There are so many parents who will thank you for helping their children. There are tons of people who support the noble profession you have chosen.
And next time one of the unappreciative people talk down to you, show them some of the amazing and inspiring stories of teachers who have made a difference.
