I was never a "good" science or math student. It wasn't my strength, and that scared me. By the time sixth grade came, I was a very awkward, shy kid regarding learning those subjects. I often hid myself away during classes and was embarrassed about my lack of knowledge. I never raised my hand. I never talked to other students. Mrs. Bentley, my science teacher, never saw me as a quiet child. She would often joke around with me, make me smile, and provided exciting lessons to truly engage her students and motivate group work. I began to make lots of friends in her class because of that opportunity, and it seemed like her priority was fostering relationships more than simply grilling her students about homework, quizzes, and tests. She was so supportive of each and every student in her class, regardless of their popularity or habits. Of course, the group work was just the opportunity I needed. She gave me the ability to talk with others without feeling anxious and without having the entire class focus on me. As an adult, I truly admire how she never brought it up, but simply helped by encouraging conversations between all of us. My grandmother is also in the school system and constantly talked about her job. She was so passionate about each student, something I couldn't understand when I was younger. Upon the revelation that teaching would be the career for me, I excitedly told her that I finally understood. She laughed and nodded, even telling me, "I can leave that school knowing I touched someone's heart today." And that stuck with me. Because education and teaching is not just about the surface level of getting good grades or classwork; it runs much deeper. You do much more than lecture. You are constantly creating emotional connections, teaching morals, and encouraging friendships. That seems incredibly important to me. That is something young children need, especially now. I truly wish to be this teacher for the upcoming generation. It's so vital that we have new teachers who are passionate about every child, and will have the patience to foster and strengthen relationships with them. I want to give each child an opportunity to flourish and break out of their shell. I want learning to be fun, and show children that they shouldn't feel foolish for not knowing every single answer. These values are so important, especially for teaching younger children. As they grow, they will blossom into exceptional young men and women, having received the necessary foundation for said growth. I will go into this career with the mentality that I want to inspire others and show kindness. I will reflect the idea that I will touch many young children's hearts each and every day. I will inspire my students to try, and to laugh, and to learn. I will confidently cheer them on and work hard to prioritize our relationship. And maybe someday, someone can look back and think of me as their Mrs. Bentley.

Young minds are something easily influenced. This is something well meaning parents always say, and something the media mentions often; but it goes deeper than just bad influences. I wish to become a teacher to bring out the best in each and every child that I teach. I want to create a positive influence on young minds so that they can grow and step into their full learning potential. I feel that when you are thinking of your future job, it should make you happy and bring genuine joy at the idea of working in that field. I feel so excited when I think of teaching. I also know that it is not an easy job. I firmly believe that nothing worth having comes easy. In pursuit of this degree, I know there will be difficulties and trials to overcome, but they are well worth it. I want to inspire and bring out the best in my future students. Teaching has been close to my heart throughout my childhood. My grandmother has been in the school system most of her life, and still has such a passion for her job. She has always been encouraging of me pursuing my dreams, as has the rest of my loved ones. I also have a way with young children, and I absolutely love interacting with them. Getting to know how a young child thinks and bring out their own strengths is truly rewarding. I can only imagine how this will reward me when I become a teacher; except I now get to educate the new generation. Something as important as this needs teachers that are willing to work hard, understand the needs of each and every student, and have true passion and love for their profession. This major was not something I have chosen lightly. Originally, I wanted to simply achieve my Associates and be done with school as I had no love for school. This is because of the teaching! To become something that I have desperately needed through my personal education experience would be incredibly gratifying and fulfilling in ways I cannot thoroughly express. I love to learn, however being taught is something I have had more trouble with. I wish to use this degree to help future students by adapting to their educational needs so that learning is something that is enriching and valuable rather than a deprivation of individuality. I wish to become the teacher that I needed.