My main reason for wanting to become a teacher is because I want to make a difference in the lives of students like my mom. My mom is a high school social studies teacher. I had the opportunity to attend the high school where she works and got to watch her in her job. She works hard to not only provide the curriculum to her students but she goes above and beyond to make sure students are supported and to let them know they are cared about. Her classroom is busy all day as students stop in before and after school and during their lunch to talk to her. Sometimes they need help on an assignment but other times it is not even students that she currently has in her class. These are students that just want to to tell her hello or need someone to talk to. She provides a place for every student in her classroom and in her heart. I want to provide the same level of academic rigor and compassion in my future classroom. I did not take the decision to go into teaching lightly. As I have mentioned, I have watched the joys and success of my mom in the classroom but I have also seen the late nights and the extra work. I have seen the heartbreak she has experienced when her students have bigger problems that she can't fix. I have witnessed her attend celebrations for students but I have also seen her cry getting ready to attend the funeral of a student that passed away in a car accident. I have had the unique perspective of watching the behind the scenes of a teacher and I am choosing this profession knowing the hard work and dedication that goes into this career. Lastly, teaching will give me an opportunity to share my passion with others. I plan to be an art educator. I believe the arts are very important and I have been active in art and music in my school career. These programs provide students with a sense of community and confidence. Sometimes, an art class might be the only reason a student wants to come to school. Art and music have greatly impacted me as a student. I would not be who I am today without access to art and music and I am excited to give back to the community that raised me.