VT

I chose education as my career path after working in a classroom to fulfill a Field Study course. The children had a powerful impact; they were amazing; challenging, and most of all loving. In helping them, I quickly realized that I was the one receiving the gift that ultimately inspired me down the path of serving disadvantaged children. After experiencing two semesters in classrooms, I realized my enthusiasm for teaching was not a mere in-the-moment feeling but rather a genuine enthusiasm. I became aware that teachers are an important foundation in society and I look forward to the opportunity to develop the skills children need to adapt and apply for the rest of their lives by encouraging knowledge, character and resilience.
My first classroom experience was a preschool at Kipps Elementary. The students were all considered At Risk. I had never heard of the term before and soon learned the sad stories of each child. They were families from low socioeconomic status and most were from a one parent household with multiple brothers and sisters. A few of the children had to move in with a relative because their parent was struggling with a drug addiction or in jail. The first week was such an eye-opener because I was raised in a loving family with parents that were actively involved in my education. I was now looking into the eyes of innocent three and four year olds who, through no fault of their own, were dealing with hardships and personal roadblocks that I had never before witnessed. My heart sank just thinking of my childhood; the family parties, swimming in the pool, and the ski trips, when most of the faces in front of me did not even get a breakfast served at home. I have always been a caring and compassionate in...

... middle of paper ...

...is a learning tool used both by teachers as well as students.
As I reflect on the past four years at Virginia Tech, I am fortunate to have had the opportunities to work two semesters in classrooms and learn first-hand about children, teaching, and how I fit into the profession. As I prepare to move to the next chapter of my formal education, I realize that I am no different than the students I worked with. As a teacher, I will become a life-long learner by learning new techniques and experimenting with different teaching strategies. How can one become an effective teacher without constantly reflecting on what works, what doesn’t work and collaborating with colleagues. I recognize that teaching is no small undertaking but I am confident I will remain dedicated to the profession with my genuine enthusiasm, positive perspective, compassion, and zeal for learning.