Philosophy of Education

Philosophy of Education

There comes a definite time in the life of every individual when a clear and conscious comprehension of identity must be established. A person must ask himself who he is, what his personal strengths are, and what path he wishes to pursue in order to shape his future and procure his dreams. I recently found myself at such a crossroads, and I faced the decision with much ambivalence. I was influenced by my high school peers and instructors to do something “incredible” with my promising life – to pursue medical school or law school. I, however, failed to see the appeal in either and opted instead for my own variation on an incredible future. I chose to pursue not only a career, but a cause and personal goal as well. After much deliberation, I decided that teaching high school English was the only endeavor that promised to reward me with the satisfaction for which I longed. I realized that I could not only express my own passion for literature, but that I could also hopefully instill that same passion into the hearts of students. Many have since criticized my dreams and my aspirations as mediocre, but I argue that every man, woman, and child is a product of at least one exemplary educator. Education, in one form or another, shapes the lives of everyone on a daily basis. Educators, to me, are the unsung heroes of modern culture.

I realize, of course, that not everyone is called to teach. I feel that only those with a true passion and love of knowledge should even consider the profession and way of life. In terms of the teacher that I will be, I hope to mirror a number of influences from my own education. I’ve always admired teachers who take time to personalize their classrooms – teac...

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...n, if met with the opportunity, I would love to join one or more in order to gain valuable insight from fellow educators.

The American statesman Edward Everett once stated that, “Education is a better safeguard of liberty than a standing army.” Indeed, the educated individual is empirically liberated. Knowledge is power, and he who has it, powerful. This rousing sentiment establishes teacher as freedom fighter, aiding daily in the demolition of ignorance’s bondage. It is my solemn vow to join these celebrated ranks in the crusade for knowledge. Many small children dream of becoming astronauts and firefighters because of their formidable accomplishments and heroic statures. Similarly, I will be a teacher; I will work with diligence, fervor, and compassion to change the lives and thought processes of students, for I can think of no nobler contribution.