I Have Chosen to Become a Teacher

Why I Have Chosen to Become a Teacher

People choose careers for many different reasons. Many choose a career because it pays well or because there is a large job market for it. Neither of these reasons was a factor in my decision to pursue a career in education, though. I decided to become a teacher because I want to have an impact on and help others. Two people have served as examples of how teaching will allow me to do this: my mother (a first grade teacher), and one of her former students.

My mother has taught for almost 30 years. She is, without a doubt, one of the most exceptional teachers in the profession. She has perfected an effective teaching method that blends knowledge, firmness, discipline, and—most importantly—compassion. For as long as I can remember, her former students have approached her in public. Even though some of them are in their mid-thirties, they still call her “Mrs. King.” She has been invited to weddings, and has wept at the funerals of former students. By observing this, it is obvious to me that she has had a significant impact on these students’ lives. It is also clear to me that they have had a profound influence on her. Like my mother, I hope to be the kind of teacher whom students remember.

One year there was a girl named Keri in my mother’s class. She had become completely blind because of a tumor on her optic nerve. My mother would often tell me stories about her students, and my first reaction upon hearing of Keri was to feel sorry for her. I imagined a sad, sullen little girl who found no joy in life, but I was pleasantly surprised when I met her. She had beautiful red hair and the most adorable smile, which she showcased o...

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...oming a teacher, I aim to graduate with a degree in elementary education from Concord College. Upon graduating, I will either pursue an advanced degree or begin teaching. I plan on having a long and very fulfilling career, and hopefully I will be able to inspire many young children. I also hope to teach many future students who inspire me.

These reasons explain why I have chosen to become a teacher. By using some of the methods I mentioned, along with a caring attitude, I hope to ensure that students learn to their maximum abilities. I also desire that, in my classroom, the entire learning experience will be enjoyable and memorable. I will never forget Keri, and there are hundreds of students who will never forget my mother (myself included). Knowing this gives me a good feeling, and I only hope that one day I can have that effect on someone.