my job teacher essay

Wednesday, April 3, 2024

Future Educators

Helping America's Future Teachers

I Want to Become a Teacher Because | My Dream Job Essay

My dream is to become a teacher . If you have this dream, you’re not alone. Here’s a collection of short essays by aspiring teachers. Current and future education students were asked to describe their motivation; what inspires them to succeed at their teacher training studies.

In these 31 student essays, future educators answer the question “I want to become a teacher because …” or “I want to become a teacher to …”. The short student essays are grouped thematically, forming the top reasons to become a teacher.

1. Giving Brings Its Own Rewards

Helping people is the unifying theme as to why students are inspired and motivated to become teachers. Education is a field where you can help young people directly in a personal way; potentially changing their lives for the better. Teaching is more than just a job.

For a significant percentage of education students, the opportunity to be of service provides plenty of motivation to pursue a teaching career. In each Why I Want to Become a Teacher essay here, a future educator explains why teaching is an opportunity to do something meaningful and beneficial.

by Hanna Halliar

If I can make an impact in just one child’s life, I will be able to consider myself successful. That is my motivation. As a future educator, what else would it be?

Every day that is spent in class, the late nights at the library, the endless hours of studying are all just steps getting me closer to the goal. When I am still up at 1 a.m. struggling to keep my eyes open, but only half way through my 6 page paper I remember how excited I am to work with my own students one day.

To me, being a teacher is so much more than the typical response most people have towards education majors. “Oh, you’re going to be a teacher. You know how much you will make?” Yes, I’m aware that I will be making an average of $50,000 a year in Indiana.

To me being a teacher means that I get the opportunity to not only teach my students math, English, and science but to teach life lessons that will stick with them as well. It means walking into school every day being the reason my students look forward to coming to school. It means being surrounded by crafts, books, and music and not being stuck in an office. It means educating our future generation. And if somebody has to do it, it should be somebody who is passionate about it.

So what motivates me to study? It is so simple, it is the kids.

by Savannah Stamates

I lay awake at night and practice my first morning message to my first round of students whom I will not meet for more than a year.

I wonder if I will have hungry children, happy children, or broken children. I wonder if I will be good enough or strong enough to reach those most in need. I wonder if my students will trust me enough to tell me that they are hungry, happy, or scared.

I worry that I will not be strong enough to share their burden or provide a place for peace and learning. I worry that I will misread their actions or their words or miss them reaching out.

So I study, even when I am tired from working two jobs or sick of not being where I want to be. When my time comes to walk into that classroom, my worries and doubts will be silenced by the knowledge I have mastered and the dream I have finally achieved.

by Charity Latchman

Dreams for the future are subjective. They can be based on what we desire. But visionary dreams are not only for us. Imagine asking some of the greatest revolutionaries and pioneers about their dreams. They generally had others in mind. In the famous “I have a Dream” speech, Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr said “we” more than thirty times. Dreams are not for our benefit alone, but to encourage, inspire and benefit others.

Recently I graduated from California Baptist University with a degree in English literature. During my studies, I was cared for my disabled mother. She was a religious studies professor who inculcated me with a diligent and steadfast approach to schoolwork. Managing the role of caregiver with university studies was challenging. But the goal to become a teacher kept me going. Approaching graduation, my mother was diagnosed with throat cancer. She didn’t worry about herself as much as you might expect but kept pushing me to finish the final paper in the program.

With her encouragement, my faith, and a burning desire to teach English literature, I graduated. My motivation comes from wanting to help, to encourage, and to inspire others. Teaching is an act of giving that has its own rewards. Life’s trials bring ups and downs. But we must always strive to attain our dreams, especially when others are central to them.

by Katheryn England

As a high school senior, many people assume I’m prepared for college and know what I want to study after graduation. These assumptions cause me to experience moments of self-doubt. Then I re-evaluate what I want for myself, and what it is that keeps me working towards my dreams. Through the goals I’ve set for myself, I can maintain focus, move past my self-doubt and succeed. By focusing on my goals, I can make a difference in the world directly around me.

A goal I have in my life is to be an elementary teacher, also known as an early childhood teacher. As a teacher, I can share the knowledge I’ve gained to leave behind a better future for our world .

Last year, I had the opportunity to work alongside a previous elementary teacher and mentor of mine. I’d visit her classroom daily, and taught lessons alongside her or independently. Uniquely, they were the opening act in my high school’s original winter play. They read first-hand from our scripts and learned what happens behind the scenes. Showing a new part of the world to the youth of my community has motivated me to pursue my dreams.

Remembering this experience and the positive influence I had on those students helps me overcome self-doubt and stay focused on my goals. Thanks to the goals I’ve set for my life, I not only can find purpose for my efforts, but find the will to be confident in whatever choices I make.

by Emma Lillard-Geiser

I have always known that I would become two things: a mother and a teacher. What I didn’t know is that I would become the mother before the teacher. Having a child that depends on me is what fuels my desire to succeed in life. When I get frustrated with my studies I take a deep breath, look at my daughter, and know that I have reason to persevere. I know that one hour of studying will give me hours with my daughter as soon as I am done.

My mother is a teacher and growing up I cherished learning from her. She had knowledge that I admired and I quickly realized that I had to spend my whole life learning. I love to learn, to have that light go off in my head when it all just clicks.

I cannot wait to see that light in the eyes of my daughter and my future students. For every thing that I learn, is another thing I can teach someone else. It isn’t easy to study when you have a small child to take care of but I know that my education will provide me with the ability to take care of her for the rest of our lives.

2. Help Disadvantaged Students

Students are disadvantaged for many reasons, whether it’s because of a handicap, where they live, economic disadvantage or a language barrier.

Future educators may want to become teachers so they can make a difference in the lives of students who face extra learning challenges. This special interest often comes from the future teacher’s own experience, either personally or involving people they’ve known.

by Ian T Thomason

While attending the University of Minnesota-Mankato, I have aspirations of becoming a Special Education Teacher. Becoming a Special Education Teacher and helping students who have a need for extra help and students who are having troubles with everyday life are things that I dream of doing. I was in their shoes once and know how difficult it is to deal with everyday life and how nice it was have a teacher to talk to.

Becoming a Special Education Teacher is my ultimate goal and, when difficult times arise, I have to remind myself of the children out there who have it potentially worse than I. When I remember this, I also think back to all of the support that I had from my parents, family members, and teachers. I also know that there are lots of children who don’t have this type of support and, if I can be there for them, that would make my career choice all the more worth it.

My Special Education degree is something more than just a degree for me. It is a degree that allows me to help children improve their education. I realize that children are our future and that their minds are terrible things to waste. So, instead of wasting their minds, why not put our best foot forward to educate them? My dream is to help kids realize their full potential, promote education and a brighter future for every child.

by Katherine

Motivation allows you to persist through difficult circumstances. Mine comes from a desire to grow into an instructor who is able to make a difference to many children’s lives.

In elementary school, I actually was a special education student. I’ve had to work hard most days of my life to achieve anything. I could not have succeeded without the support of some absolutely amazing teachers. Now I desire to take on that supporting role for as many students as I can reach.

When a class or an assignment I don’t want to do come up, I think of what motivates me. And the motivation is children. Many students feel powerless about their education, just like I did. I could be a teacher who turns their education around, providing vital support and motivation to succeed at their studies. Ultimately, everyone motivates themselves by one way or another. My motivation comes from the pure desire to help future students.

by Robbie Watson

My road to graduate school has been a long one. I studied religion and culture in undergrad, interested in the material, yet not sure how I would apply it later. Yet I found places, got involved in community and international development, engaged with different cultures, and now feel I use my degree every day.

For over two years I worked alongside Congolese refugees in Rwanda, developing educational opportunities for youths who could not finish secondary school in the underfunded camps. It is these refugees, young and old, the students, the teachers, their passion and vision for a better future that has driven me to seek out more education for myself. I remember how they would pay from their families’ meager funds to attend classes led by volunteer teachers. When finances were against them, or time, or family obligations, or the dire depression of the camp life itself, or even government officials were against them, still those students attended, still those teachers taught.

It is their example of perseverance towards a goal against all odds that inspires me now. I think of them often, think of the friends they were, are still. And I think of how that passion is in me now, to better understand education so that I might better educate, and thus equip such downtrodden communities to work for transformation themselves. I work not only for myself, and am motivated by the potential in those students and educators, which is also in me, and in others like them.

by Natalie Pelayo

I’m a young Latino woman working towards the goal of earning a bachelor degree in bilingual education. On occasions, I feel a slowing in my motivation. But, every time it happens, I think about the goal and that pushes me to move forward.

Looking back to a middle school class I attended, there was a boy who never really participated. He sat in his hoodie, looking down to his desk. Only after trying to talk with him, I discovered he spoke with broken English and a thick Spanish accent. It seemed as if no-one in our class actually knew that he struggled to understand what was being taught because it was presented in English.

By his manner, it was apparent that he had already accepted a dismal fate. Past teachers may have been unable to communicate with him. Eventually, he’d become demoralized. Thinking about the disadvantages he had to endure provides ongoing motivation to study hard.

I aim to become a bilingual elementary school teacher to support young Spanish-speaking children. As a teacher, I’ll be able to show them that they can succeed. Children need not grow up thinking they’re incapable of learning due to a language barrier. I’ll keep working towards my goal to help ensure teaching is inclusive of all children, no matter their first language.

by Abigail Young

I am an American citizen, but my whole life I have lived in Cameroon, Africa. I have been blessed with an enormous amount of opportunities and a great education at a private international school.

Every day I have seen children and teenagers around me who do not get the same education or have the same possibilities of a “bright” future. I see schools that are forced to have three children share a small table, paper, and pens. I have seen a badly lit room with poor roofs and walls made from bricks. Even in my school there are numerous Cameroonians, my friends, and classmates that do not have the same chances at a higher level education, although they work just as hard.

When I study, I study hard because I do not want to let this chance and opportunity go to waste. I study because I have been undeservedly blessed to be able to go the United States for a high education with better chances at getting scholarship money. I study my hardest because it is my dream that I may come back and make a difference in countries like Africa with poor education systems . It should be a right for children to be able to learn like I have. Therefore, because of this mindset, I am driven to study not just out of thankfulness for my circumstances, but also in hope that I may be able to give other children a better chance, and a greater reason to study.

3. Helping Many People Is Achievable in Teaching

A powerful source of motivation for some education students is the potential to touch and positively impact the lives of many people. Education is a field of consequence and that’s a good reason for wanting to join the teaching profession.

Over the course of a long career, a classroom teacher may help shape the learning experience of hundreds or even thousands of students. In policy roles, educators can affect millions of people.

by Rachel Bayly

Through high school I worked as a teacher at a daycare. When I left for college I said goodbye to a lot of people, including my students. All summer I had woken up at five in the morning to go to work and wait for them to arrive and put a smile on my face. Those kids motivated me to keep waking up and working hard, and leaving them was not easy.

The thing that made that goodbye worth it, the reason that I keep pushing through this tying chapter of my life is that I am determined to improve early childhood education in the United States .

I want to be a positive force in the lives of as many children as I possibly can, and I plan on doing that by improving standards and policies for early childhood education and making it more affordable.

Every week I write in my planner, “I will make a difference” and one way that I will change the lives of children and families. On days that I find myself asking, “why am I here?” “why am I going into debt, paying to be stressed out all the time?” I think of my students. I read my “I will make a difference” statements.

I remember that some children out there are stuck in low quality child care centers, they will never reach their full potential, and they need help. I keep working hard everyday so that I can help those children.

by Megan Burns

My ultimate goal is to change the lives of people. Studying to be a teacher is hard. All of the classes that are required, all of the practicums, and all of the time spent just to become a teacher is stressful, but the thought of being able to help just one person changes everything.

It takes one person to be a light in someone’s life. It take one person to be a helping hand. It takes one person to change an unmotivated, broken life, and make it brand new. Qualified teachers are those people. We motivate students to do their best, we guide students to success when no one else will, and we are always available to listen. One teacher can change the lives of thousands of students. That is my motivation.

I know that after college, I will be a teacher, a guider, a counselor, and a friend to so many students. No matter how many bad days I have or how many times I want to quit, I just think of what is to come in the future. I can be that change this world needs, even if its in a small high school classroom. It just takes one person.

by Victoria Shoemkaer

My dream is to make a difference in the life of children.

To make them excited about learning.
To make it fun the way it used to be when they were younger.
To show them that someone cares about them and wants to see them succeed.
To show that they are much more that a test score or a number.
To believe in them so much, that I do not let them get discouraged from chasing their dreams.
To showing them that everyone fails and it’s your recovery that determines what happens next.
To sacrifice myself to gives them more opportunities for success.
To encourage students to succeed in and out of the classroom for the betterment of themselves and the community.
To inspire them to change the world, because they can.
To help them transform into caring and compassionate adults who are ready to conquer the word, but remember where they came from.
To teach them to do good in the world because anyone can accomplish doing well.

Most importantly, my dream is to make children feel like their voice is important and valued and that they are loved more than they know.

4. Lives Can Be Improved by Dedicated Instructors

Teaching a subject such as Math or English is the everyday task of a teacher. But our prospective teachers see a greater purpose in their training and career path.

The daily motivation to teach doesn’t come from the superficial advantages of a teaching career, such as great job security or extra vacation time. Here are stories by future educators who want to go beyond the curriculum and improve people’s lives all round.

by Savannah Luree Weverka

Teachers are the ones who ignited my love for learning and there is not a day that goes by when I do not challenge myself to a personal goal of lifelong learning.

My mother is a teacher, so I was a student educated in an institution filled with support and a home that also supported education. I recall many teacher “get-togethers” and Husker parties where an informal invitation led to my presence.

Due to all of this support and interaction received throughout my elementary and high school career, Elementary Education continues to be at the top of my career choices. And now, as a senior looking forward to graduating from high school, teachers remain my role models .

In considering a focus in Elementary Education, I now realize that many teachers not only teach children eight hours of the day, but become doctors for scraped knees, dictionaries for challenging words, mediators between students, and parents away from home.

Now, as I am taking the steps to make my dream come true I hope to make school an escape to free their minds and expand their knowledge. I want to share my love of learning with my students.

by Aaron Banta

Since I was younger, I have had the dream of becoming a history teacher at the high school level. The reason I am striving for this career is thanks to a teacher I had. They held such a passion for history and taught it so well that it made me want to keep learning everything I could about it.

In college, I have had to work multiple jobs and attend school full-time. I would wake up early in the morning and not get home until late at night. The one thing that kept me on top of my studying and work was the dream I have; to be able to teach history and express my love for it by teaching the next generation. I strive to impact their lives for the better just like mine was.

Being able to pass my courses and get a degree and teaching credentials is the first main goal I am striving for. But being able to have a positive impact on students I have will be an even greater goal that I want to accomplish. I am hoping to guide them through their study of my favorite subject so I can teach them about the world and help them just like my teacher had helped me.

by Chelsea Rogers

At USC Upstate, I am studying to be a Secondary Education Mathematics teacher. The math courses are not easy and the education courses pushes you to challenge yourself. The thought of being a future teacher is what motivates me to keep pushing.

Although I do not know any of my students, they are precious to me and I believe it is my job to change their lives for the better. Teaching math is my job, but looking beyond my content and into the wellbeing of my students is my passion.

The question I always ask myself is how can I teach students who may not trust me? I have to establish a connection with each student so that they will see I care about them academically, physically, and emotionally. Once students see that you care about them in these areas, it becomes easier to teach them and they are willing to perform to the best of their ability because they know their teacher supports them 100 percent. Being a great teacher is what motivates me to continue striving for my degree.

by Micayla Watroba

One plus one is two. Phone is pronounced with an F sound. 60 divided by 15 is 4. An essay typically has five paragraphs. I know all these things because I went to school. I also had teachers that helped me understand it even when I didn’t get the same opportunities as everyone else.

See, when I was in first grade I was diagnosed with ALL Leukemia. This made school very hard. I was either out of school so often that I missed entire chapters or I was bullied so badly that I couldn’t focus because I was so scared. Having cancer also made it hard for my mom and dad to pay for food and rent much less after school activities and tutoring. I grew up knowing that there were some things that were just not in reach for us.

For as bad as I had it, I can’t imagine having to live on the streets, going hungry, or even being taught in a language I don’t know.

My dream is to be the teacher that makes sure that every student gets an education that helps them succeed. I want to make sure that my students not only enjoy being at school but feel safe while there. My students will know that it doesn’t matter where they came from or what background they came from. I am going to be there and I will not leave them behind. This is my dream.

5. Promote Lifelong Learning in Young People

What inspires some people to become teachers is the power to set young people on the right education path. Helping children to have good early experiences and embrace the learning process can profoundly enhance someone’s life. The potential for transformative early development applies to handicapped and disadvantaged kids as much as anyone.

by Lesley Martinez-Silva

I aspire to make a difference in others’ lives through education. I’m studying to be an elementary school teacher because I believe that children can achieve so much more if they learn early of their potential.

Education has always been my priority. My parents always stressed the importance of obtaining an education, having missed that opportunity themselves. My parents taught me as a child that schooling was vital to success in life. Truly, that lesson has been the most important in my path to college. I don’t think I would’ve made it this far had I not taken my education seriously.

I want to teach others about the importance of education so they too can prosper. Everything I’m learning at university is important for my future career and, if I don’t study it, I’m failing my future students. Every child deserves the best education available and I should strive to be the best educator possible to provide that for them. When balancing academics, work, and my social life, it can get challenging to keep going. But, with the future of children’s education in my hands, I always get back on track.

by Brianna Rivers

One of my goals is to become a teacher and work in an public elementary school within the greater Boston area (possibly my own elementary school). I want to be a teacher because I enjoy working with children and I know how important teachers are in children’s lives. I plan on receiving my Bachelor’s degree for Early Childhood Education and my Master’s degree in Special Education.

I want to major in Early Childhood Education because early education is significant for children and is a building block for their future in learning . I also want to major in Special Education because I believe all children should receive equal learning opportunities as well as equal treatment (meaning an inclusive environment, etc).

I think all of my experiences have a positive impact on myself because I am learning more about what it takes to be a teacher and what it takes to be a good teacher. My experiences also have a positive impact on the children and adults I work with. I offer a helping hand to the teachers and a friendly face to the children.

I plan to continue to work hard and take advantage of learning opportunities to achieve both of my goals. Being a teacher is my desire and I will stop at nothing to be a great teacher one day.

by Jennamarie Moody

When I close my eyes, I picture myself in a school located in an urban setting, teaching a classroom of diverse yet alike students. These students are in the second grade, meaning that they are impressionable yet vulnerable to their environment whether this means at home, at school, or in their greater community.

Some of these students don’t speak English as their first language, and some come from low-income households that can limit their educational experiences outside of the classroom. And yet, no matter what differences these students bring to the table, their uniqueness flows throughout the classroom in such a positive energy that embraces, respects, and promotes learning. This is the goal I am working towards; the goal to inspire our youth to become self-advocates for their learning .

Opportunities for equal educational experiences may not exist, however the beauty lies in the growth of love young students can develop as they are challenged in the classroom to question their surroundings. I plan to make a difference in the lives of the children I meet along the way, and to create a safe learning environment.

Although the tests for certification and studies can be difficult, my passion for education and dedication to shaping the lives of my students is what keeps me going. The end goal is to nurture the development of my students to become active and engaged participants in society, and that is what I intend to do completely.

by Julie Anderson

My long-time goal has been to become a teacher, and this year I’m in a class called Teachers for Tomorrow, where I get to shadow a kindergarten teacher. Working with her and the students has increased my interest in children with special needs.

From here on out, I want to support my students in academics and other parts of their lives so I can help them learn, grow, and succeed. I know that children need a strong start to their school career because the first few years of school are crucial; this is when students begin to love or hate learning itself. Whether or not children enjoy school, they deserve to appreciate learning. Students who love learning will always want to improve themselves.

I will make an effort to provide a loving environment where each child can prosper. However, for students with special needs, this task becomes even harder to accomplish because traditional classrooms are usually set up for non-disabled students. While I know I can’t “save” every student I teach, and some of them will still hate learning, at least I can start them off right.

When I’m swamped with schoolwork, I will imagine my future students and how I could influence their lives. Even though not all of my college classes will relate to my major, forming a habit of working hard in college will help me to succeed as a future teacher.

6. Teachers Are Excellent Role Models

The experience of being helped and transformed by a good teacher leaves a lasting impression. Teaching is considered a noble profession for good reasons.

Some education students are motivated to become a teacher to emulate their own role models. They want to provide the same kind of service they once received. An added reason for pursuing a teaching career is to be a role model to younger people outside the classroom, including one’s own children.

by Teresa Pillifant

My first day – well, more like first semester- of my freshman year in high school was the hardest semester of my whole school career. Usually the kind of student who loves school, I found myself getting stomach aches in the morning and dreading school with my whole being. I was new to the school, and the number of students was overwhelming.

It seemed like there was no relief, except for my first hour Spanish class. Having no friends, I would always arrive at my first hour class early. As this pattern continued, my Spanish teacher and I developed a relationship. My teacher started giving me books to read, asking my opinion on what we should do in class and just talked to me in general about life. Through my teacher’s support, I grew to find my place in the school and became more confident.

Her kind words and actions inspired me to become a teacher myself. Now, whenever school or life gets difficult, I think of my freshmen year Spanish teacher and how she inspired me. I want to do what she did for me for my future students. Whether it be a difficult test or a challenging class, my goal of making a difference in a student’s life keeps me going.

by Mo Cabiles

The world we live in is hard, unsteady and ruthless. We see this everyday in the harshness of homelessness, to social media screaming for justice. What motivates me to continue on is that I have felt the bitter cold bite of homelessness. I know what it’s like to not have enough to eat and to be scared of what will happen next.

I am fortunate to no longer be in those situations but that, by no means, is an indicator that it will all now come easy. As an adult learner and your “non-traditional” student, there are other obstacles I must overcome. From transportation to childcare or education application mastery to APA formatting, the many roadblocks I tackle both large and small are what I consider to be my victories.

I’ve seen what having a higher education can do for someone and I want that for myself and that of my daughters. I strive to be a good example for them , to show them that, regardless of social standing and unforeseeable circumstances, if they work hard and put their best effort forward, they can achieve their dreams.

My dream is to obtain my Masters in Education with an emphasis in counseling. I want to be an academic advisor or guidance counselor. I’ve seen so many youths attempt community college and fail because they fell through the cracks. These students need to realize their potential and I want to help them achieve that and to be their cheerleader.

by Gia Sophia Sarris

In every school I’ve ever attended, experienced teachers were there to support and inspire me. I have looked up to these people ever since I was in elementary school, and they have had an immense and positive impact on my life and my view of the world. My fondness for these people [educators] has led me to aspire to become a teacher.

I want to “pay it forward” and improve the lives of children and teenagers who grow up struggling as I did, or in any way for that matter. I want to make a difference in their lives and let them know that they are not alone with their problems.

This is what motivates me to study hard. Becoming a teacher, I believe, will help me fulfill my purpose in life, which I think is to create happiness and ease the burdens of others. I feel that children and teenagers need this especially, because they are struggling to understand the world and their place in it. I study hard for their sake.

by Jennifer Wolfert

From elementary school to my first year at college, I struggled to establish a dream for myself. Trying to figure out what career I wanted to pursue as successful adult always filled me with anxiety. I had spent multiple years in special education and left with a low academic self-esteem. So, after high school I attended Bucks County Community College in search for more time. Still I made no progress. Then I decided to change my outlook. I stopped asking “what do I want to do?” and started asking “who do I want to be?”. That’s when my dream took shape.

The educators that I met during my time at community college were my inspiration. They are brilliant, hardworking people with a passion for their specialty that I had never seen before. Their belief in hard work was infectious. School began to fill me with excited anticipation and my grades improved. I started to believe that if I worked hard enough then I could be like them and inspire others like they had inspired me.

At the end of my second year attending community college, I accomplished a task that had previously racked me with fear. I applied to Temple University as a Secondary English Education major. I have now completed my second semester at Temple and earned my first 4.0 GPA. In time, I am confident that I will be able to accomplish my dream. I will become the passionate and inspiring educator that my younger self never had.

by Jenyfer Pegg

My entire life has been filled with discouragement. I grew up in a household where I was constantly told “No”. I was told my ideas were stupid and would not work. In my junior year of high school, my teachers and counselors started talking about college and sending in applications to different places. At that point, I knew I was not going. I came from a poor family and I knew we could never have money for something like college.

But I went on college visits, I listened to people speak about their college, and I was set. I had a lot of things pushing me, except the one thing I really wanted, my family. No one in my family has gone to college, and when I told my mother, she was shocked. She told me she just wanted me out of the house.

When I came to school, I realized I wanted to teach high school. I want to make an actual difference in someone else’s life. My family has taken the same road for years, and I’m not going down that road. I won’t live paycheck to paycheck like my mom, I will be a person that others will look up to.

I’m going to do something worthwhile, and I will work harder than anyone else if it gets me there. I’ve seen what my life will be like without school and motivation and there is absolutely no way I’m going down that road. I’ve got bigger plans.

7. Unlock the Success Potential of Students

Educators want to help students in every way they can but, for some future teachers, the focus is on helping students soar. That child in front of you in the classroom might grow up to do great things for society, raise a strong family, or just be happy and fulfilled.

Whatever the potential of a pupil, a teacher’s job is to help unlock talents and remove any barriers to future success.

by Tamara Vega

The thing that motivates me the most is the thought of having my own classroom someday. I want to be the teacher that changes a child’s life, inspires them to set high goals for themselves and encourages them to reach it.

College can be so hard at times and I get really anxious and scared. I worry about not passing my classes and exams, I worry about not getting my degree. Despite that I do not give up because I have to do this and I want to do this.

I cannot see myself doing anything else besides teaching, I have never been this passionate about something. I want to graduate and get my degree. I’d love to look at it and say, “I worked hard for this and I earned it”.

The idea that the students in my classroom could grow up to cure cancer, or become president, pretty much anything they want, brings me so much excitement. I want to be the teacher that they remember, the one who helped them realize their dream and who gave them the knowledge needed to reach it.

Be the teacher that I needed as a child but unfortunately never had. That is what gets me through all the stress and anxiety, I know in my heart that all the studying I’m doing right now will be worth it in the end.

by Nicole Gongora

The dream of success motivates me to study – not my success, my future students’ success. I push myself through the rough spots for them.

I was a lost child in high school; I didn’t know how to apply to college, let alone afford it. No child should have to experience that. As a future educator, I am committed to helping my students succeed, achieve more, and continue onto higher education. Every child should be given the opportunity to showcase their strengths and follow their dreams.

College was never a dream for me; it was a far off, unattainable fantasy. I met some inspiring teachers in high school who encouraged me to change my life and who helped me to thrive. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

I plan to work at a low-income school similar to the one I attended. These types of schools are the ones who lack resources. I will serve as a resource to my students and I hope to be an inspiration to them. In turn, I hope they become kind, respectful adults. I want them to see the virtue in helping others and I hope they will serve others in their future careers. I want to be the teacher they remember. I want to be the teacher that helped them succeed.

I’ll feel successful as a teacher if my students are successful in attaining their goals. If one student decides to achieve more then I will have lived out my dream.

by Madison Sherrill

I’ve decided to become a teacher because I want to show the value of compassion and diversity.

As I begin college this upcoming fall, my main motivation is the students. While I haven’t even met them yet, they inspire me to persist in my classes and stay optimistic. My classroom will support innovative thinking and celebrate each student’s individuality.

As a classroom teacher, I want to encourage and positively influence the next generation. They should know that they can be successful and achieve what they aspire to become while making the world better. By teaching the value of inclusiveness and the power of kindness, my students may turn out to be visionary thinkers and leading members of society.

by Alicia Costin

I am returning to school after taking a few years off. After graduating from California Lutheran University with my BS in Mathematics, I wanted to land a job with benefits and begin my “adult life”.

While it took me a few months to find my current job, is it just that; a job. I have benefits, a full-time schedule, weekends and holidays off, but am I happy? Is this what I want to do as a career for the rest of my life? I have asked myself this question a few times and the answer is always the same; no.

My dream is to become a teacher and help motivate and encourage students to do their best in their studies and in life. It is my dream to do what I was meant to do; shape young minds and help future generations.

When things become difficult during my graduate program, I know to keep pushing, thriving, and studying hard so that, when I do become a teacher, I can use this as a positive story to shape their way of life. I landed a job outside of college, however now it is time for me to land my career.

Who taught the first teacher, what can i do with a master’s in education, why teaching is still a good career choice, how to become a homeschool teacher.

Essay About Being a Teacher: Top 5 Examples and Prompts

If you are writing an essay about being a teacher, here are some examples to give you inspiration.

Without a doubt, teaching is one of the most important professions one can have. Teachers give children the lessons they must learn to face the future and contribute positively to society. They can be considered the gateway to success stories such as Oprah Winfrey , Adele , and John Legend , all of whom have cited their teachers as major inspirations to their careers.

Many educators would say that “teaching is its own reward.” However, it may be difficult to see how this is the case, especially considering the fact that being an educator entails massive amounts of stress and pressure. Teaching has actually been reported to be one of the most underpaid jobs , yet many teachers still love what they do. Why is this?

If you want to write an essay about being a teacher, whether you are one or not, you can get started by reading the 5 examples featured here.

1. Reflections on being a teacher … by Darren Koh

2. teaching in the pandemic: ‘this is not sustainable’ by natasha singer, 3. why i got rid of my teacher’s desk by matthew r. morris, 4. stress is pushing many teachers out of the profession by daphne gomez, 5. doubt and dreams by katheryn england, top writing prompts on essay about being a teacher, 1. what makes teaching so fulfilling, 2. what can you learn from being a teacher, 3. why do people become teachers, 4. should you become a teacher, 5. how have teachers helped you become who you are today.

“Although strictly speaking, based on the appointments I hold, I really do not have time to do much of it. I say teach, not lecturing. The lecturer steps up to the lectern and declaims her knowledge. She points out the difficulties in the area, she talks about solutions to problems, and she makes suggestions for reform. The focus is on the subject – the students follow. The teacher, however, needs to meet the students where they are in order to bring them to where they have to be. The focus is on the student’s ability.”

Koh writes about how he teaches, the difficulties of teaching, and what it means to be a teacher. He helps his students hone their skills and use them critically. He also discusses the difficulty of connecting with each student and focusing their attention on application rather than mere knowledge. Koh wants students to achieve their full potential; teaching to him is engaging, inspirational, and transparent. He wants readers to know that being a teacher is rewarding yet difficult, and is something he holds close to his heart.

“‘I work until midnight each night trying to lock and load all my links, lessons, etc. I never get ahead,” one anonymous educator wrote. ‘Emails, endless email. Parents blaming me because their kids chose to stay in bed, on phones, on video games instead of doing work.’”

Singer writes about the difficult life of teachers trying to balance in-person and distance learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. On top of the standard class routine, being a teacher during the pandemic has entailed the burden of handling students who opt for remote learning. They are faced with additional struggles, including connection issues, complaining parents, and being overworked in general- it’s as if they teach twice the number of classes as normal. This is exhausting and may prove detrimental to the American education system, according to the sources Singer cites.

“What it means to me is that I am checking (or acknowledging) my privilege as a teacher in the space of the classroom and in order to facilitate a more equitable classroom community for my students, erasing one of the pillars of that inequity is a step in the right direction. I am comfortable in my role as the head member in my classroom, and I don’t need a teacher’s desk anymore to signify that.”

Morris, an educator, writes about what teaching means to him, highlighted by his decision to remove his teacher’s desk from his classroom. Being a teacher for him is about leading the discussion or being the “lead learner,” as he puts it, rather than being an instructor. His removal of the teacher’s desk was decided upon based on his desire to help his students feel more equal and at home in class. He believes that being a teacher means being able to foster authentic connections both for and with his students.

“Teachers want to help all students achieve, and the feeling of leaving any student behind is devastating. The pressure that they put on themselves to ensure that they serve all students can also contribute to the stress.”

Gomez writes about the stress that comes with being a teacher, largely due to time constraints, lack of resources, and the number of students they must instruct. As much as they want to help their students, their environment does not allow them to touch the lives of all students equally. They are extremely pressured to uphold certain standards of work, and while they try as hard as they can, they do not always succeed. As a result, many teachers have left the profession altogether. Gomez ends her piece with an invitation for teachers to read about other job opportunities.

“Then I re-evaluate what I want for myself, and what it is that keeps me working towards my dreams. Through the goals I’ve set for myself, I can maintain focus, move past my self-doubt and succeed. By focusing on my goals, I can make a difference in the world directly around me.”

Taken from a collection of short essays, England’s essay is about why she so desperately wishes to become a teacher. She was previously able to work as a teaching assistant to her former elementary school teacher, and enjoyed imparting new knowledge unto children. Even in moments of self-doubt, she reminds herself to be confident in her dreams and hopes to be able to make a difference in the world with her future profession.

Essay about being a teacher: What makes teaching so fulfilling?

When it comes to teachers, we often hear about either “the joy of teaching” or the immense stress that comes with it. You can explore the gratitude and satisfaction that teachers feel toward their jobs, even with all the struggles they face. Read or watch the news and interviews with teachers themselves.

Research on the skills and qualifications people need to be teachers, as well as any qualities they may need to do their job well. What skills can you get from teaching? What traits can you develop? What lessons can you learn?

Despite the seemingly endless barrage of stories about the difficulties that teachers face, many people still want to teach. You can explore the reasoning behind their decisions, and perhaps get some personal insight on being a teacher as well.

Based on what you know, would you recommend teaching as a job? If you aren’t too knowledgeable on this topic, you can use the essay examples provided as guides- they present both the positive and negative aspects of being a teacher. Be sure to support your argument with ample evidence- interviews, anecdotes, statistics, and the like.

Teachers, whether in a school setting or not, have almost certainly helped make you into the person you are now. You can discuss the impact that your teachers have had on your life, for better or for worse, and the importance of their roles as teachers in forming students for the future.

Check out our guide packed full of transition words for essays .

If you’re still stuck, check out our general resource of essay writing topics .

Martin is an avid writer specializing in editing and proofreading. He also enjoys literary analysis and writing about food and travel.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Dream Job — What Inspired You to Become a Teacher

What Inspired You to Become a Teacher

Categories: Dream Job Teacher

About this sample

Words: 726 |

Updated: 12 December, 2023

Words: 726 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

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Works Cited

Darling-Hammond, L. (2017). Empowered Educators: How High-Performing Systems Shape Teaching Quality Around the World. Jossey-Bass.
DuFour, R., DuFour, R., Eaker, R., & Many, T. (2016). Learning by Doing: A Handbook for Professional Learning Communities at Work. Solution Tree.
Erickson, L. (2019). Teaching the Tough Stuff: A Guide to Helping Students Through Experiences That Hurt. ASCD.
Hattie, J. (2012). Visible Learning for Teachers: Maximizing Impact on Learning. Routledge.
Marzano, R. J., Pickering, D. J., & Heflebower, T. (2013). The Highly Engaged Classroom. Marzano Research.
Pianta, R. C., Hamre, B. K., & Allen, J. P. (2012). Teacher-Student Relationships and Engagement: Conceptualizing, Measuring, and Improving the Capacity of Classroom Interactions. Routledge.
Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2017). Self-Determination Theory: Basic Psychological Needs in Motivation, Development, and Wellness. Guilford Press.
Stronge, J. H. (2018). Qualities of Effective Teachers. ASCD.
Tomlinson, C. A. (2017). How to Differentiate Instruction in Academically Diverse Classrooms. ASCD.
Wong, H. K., & Wong, R. T. (2018). The First Days of School: How to Be an Effective Teacher. Harry K. Wong Publications.

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19 Top Ideas for a “Why I want to be a Teacher” Essay

Here are the 19 best reasons you would want to be a teacher that you can include in your essay:

To help children learn more effectively.
To ensure children have positive mentors.
To improve children’s lives.
To help future generations solve the problems of today.
To help the future generations become good citizens.
To inspire future generations to create a more equal world.
To give back to the community I grew up in.
To be a part of helping my community thrive.
To be a part of my community’s decision-making processes.
Because you have the patience for working with children.
Because you have compassion for children.
Because you want to learn from children.
Because you’re enthusiastic about learning.
Because you are a generous person.
Because you’re interested in learning how to teach difficult students.
Because you’re interested in learning how to work with difficult parents.
Because you’re interested in learning diverse strategies for teaching,
Because you’re interested in learning to master classroom management.
Because you’re interested in learning what works and what doesn’t in teaching.

The ‘Why I want to be a teacher’ essay is all about showing you have thought in-depth about what a teacher does and what their role is in society. It’s also about showing you think you’d be a good person to conduct that role.

The 9 Tips are split into five categories. You can scan this whole post or browse through the categories here:

This essay is hard to get right.

Most students write the exact same thing as one another with the same old cliché statements like “because I love kids” (ugh, wrong answer!). If you do this, your teacher will just give you an average grade (or worse).

You need your essay on “why you want to be a teacher” to be different – indeed excellent – so it stands out for your teacher.

I’ll show you how.

Why should you listen to me? Well, I’ve been teaching university students in education departments for 8 years. In that time I’ve marked several thousand essays by people aiming to become teachers. I know what essays get top marks and which ones are average. I also know exactly what mistakes students make that make their essays seem … dull.

So, let me get you started out by introducing 19 points that you should make in your essay on why you want to be a teacher. I’ll break these 19 points down into 5 separate categories. Check them out below.

Read Also: Is Being a Teacher Worth It? (Why I Quit a Good Job)

1. Definitely do not say “because kids are fun”. Do this instead.

The word ‘fun’ is a big red flag for markers. Too many people want to become teachers because they think it would be a fun profession. Or, they might think that they want to help children have fun . No, no, no.

This is an incorrect answer in your essay about why you want to become a teacher.

Yes, teaching is fun a lot of the time. And it is really nice to see students having fun based on activities you’ve set for them.

But society isn’t paying you to have fun, or even to make children have fun. You’re not going to be a child minder, aunt, uncle or clown. You’re going to be a professional who has a bigger social purpose than having fun.

Now, a lot of students say to me “But, students learn more when they’re having fun.” Sure, that might be true – but it’s not a central reason for teaching.

If making learning more fun is genuinely a reason why you decided to become a teacher, then you need to frame it in a way that shows the importance of teaching for the good of students. Here’s three better ways to say ‘because kids are fun’; for each on, we can start with “I want to become a teacher because…”:

I want to help children learn more effectively. You could say something like: …When I was in school, learning was hard and I therefore hated teaching. There were a lot of teachers who seemed uninspired and uninterested in whether their children are learning. I was inspired to become a teacher so I could help children like myself to learn in ways that are engaging, motivating and inspiring.
I want to ensure children have positive mentors. You could say something like: …Many children in the world don’t have positive mentors at home. A teacher is often the one person in a child’s life who is a stable mentor that the child can lean upon. I chose to become a teacher because I believe all children need a positive mentor that instils in them an interest in the world and a belief that they can make something of themselves.
I want to improve children’s lives. You could say something like: …Being a teacher will give me the power to make children’s lives better. Learning opens doors to new opportunities, ways of thinking and paths in life that children wouldn’t have had before me. I am inspired by the idea of helping a child who is sad, uncertain and lacks confidence to see their own potential for creating a fulfilling life for themselves.

All three of those ideas still skirt around the idea that helping children have fun is something you want to see happen, but they also point out that there’s something deeper here than the idea that children should have fun: they should have fun for a reason. That reason could be so they learn more, develop an interest in the world, or see that their lives are full of potential.

Note that in my three examples above, I never used the word ‘fun’: it’s too much of a red flag for your markers.

2. Explain how teaching helps the world! Here’s how.

Have you ever heard someone say that ‘Teaching is a noble profession’? Well, it is. And this is something you really should be talking about in your essay on why you want to become a teacher.

Your teacher will be impressed by your understanding that teaching is a profession that keeps the world turning. Without teachers, where would we be? Probably back in the dark ages where people couldn’t read or write, technology wasn’t advancing very quickly at all, and people mostly lived in ignorance of their world.

So, being a teacher is has a bigger social purpose. As a teacher, you’ll be an important piece of society. You’ll be one of the army of tens – no, hundreds – of thousands of people helping future generations to propel our world towards better days. Below are some ways teaching helps the world. You can start these off with “I want to become a teacher because…”

I want to help future generations solve the problems of today. Being a teacher gives you the opportunity to propel students to greater heights. The children in your classrooms will be the people who solve climate change (oh, goodness, I hope so!), create the technologies to make our lives more comfortable, and get us out of the ecological, economic and political messes we seem to have gotten ourselves into!
I want to help the future generations become good citizens. There’s a concept called the ‘ hidden curriculum ’. This concept points to the fact that children learn more at school than what’s in the tests. They also learn how to get along, manners, democratic values and the importance of sharing. These soft skills are more than just a by-product of education. They’re incredibly important for showing our students how to get along in our society.
I want to inspire future generations to create a more equal world. A lot of what we talk about at school are moral issues: what’s the right and wrong thing to do? How do our actions ensure or hinder equality of races, genders and social classes? As a teacher, you will be instilling in children the idea that the decisions they make will lead to a more or less equal world. And of course, we all want a more equal world for our children.

These points are some higher-order points that will help you teacher see that you’re becoming a teacher for more than ‘fun’. You’re becoming a teacher because you see the noble purpose in teaching. If you do this right, you’ll surely impress your teacher.

3. Discuss your commitment to community. Here’s how.

Teachers are at the center of communities. Parents take their children to school, drop them off, then go to work. They busily get on with their jobs: architect, shop assistant, nurse, builder, and so on… Then, they all come back at the end of the day to collect their children from school.

School is one of the few things that brings all of these different members of a community together. Parents gather around the pick up location to gather their kids, and there they stand around and chat about sports and politics and community issues.

School is at the heart of community.

And you, as a teacher, will be one of the respected members of that community: there to serve all the members of the community by helping to raise their children with the values of the community in which you live.

You can talk about this as a central reason why you want to be a teacher. How about you start off with: “I want to become a teacher because…”

I want to give back to the community I grew up in. You could say …I grew up in a close-knit community where we all looked out for one another. Being a teacher will give me the opportunity to give back to my friends and mentors in the town who need someone to raise their children who they trust will do a great job.
I want to be a part of helping my community thrive. You could talk about how you are from a growing community that needs good quality, respectable people who will educate future members of your community. As a teacher, you will be at the heart of ensuring your local town remains a great place to live.
I want to be a part of my community’s decision-making processes. Teachers hold a certain authority: they know how students learn, and they usually have a very deep understanding of what is best for children in order to ensure they thrive. You can talk about how you want to become a person with deep knowledge about the children in your community so you can help guide you community’s decisions around how to raise their young people.

Note that in this group of ideas, ‘community’ represents the close-knit town in which you live, whereas in point 2, I talked about ‘society’, which was the bigger picture of the future of our nation or world rather than just your town.

4. Discuss the personality traits you think you can bring to the role. Here’s how.

You should show how you have reflected on the requirements of the role of teaching and thought about whether you have the personality traits that are required.

Why? Well, you need to be able to show that you know what being a teacher is all about… and that you think you’d be good at it.

So, let’s dive in to 5 personality traits that teachers have, and how you can show you have those traits:

Patience. Patience is an enormously popular skill for teachers to have. You’ll have kids who just don’t understand concepts one iota, and you’ve got to sit there and work with them until they get it. It’s tedious, let me tell you!
Compassion. Patience and compassion go hand-in-hand. If you don’t feel empathy for the kid who’s struggling super hard at learning, you’ll get pretty mad and just give up. You might also say some mean things to the kid! So, compassion is really necessary if you want to become a good teacher.
Open minded. Teachers always need to be learning new things. We often talk about the importance of learning with students more than directly teaching If you set a student a task, you’ll be sending them out to gather as much information on the topic as possible. They’ll often come back with new knowledge and you will want to praise them for teaching you something new.
Enthusiasm. Let me tell you, when it’s Wednesday afternoon in the middle of a hot school week and everyone’s depressed and flat there’s one person to rally the troops: you! Teachers need to wake up every morning, put their happy face on, and march into the classroom with boundless enthusiasm. It’ll motivate your students and make them feel welcome in the learning environment.
Generosity. You need to be generous with your time and praise. You need to be constantly thinking about the students in your care and doing anything you can to help them learn, instil in them a love of learning, and give them the confidence to try anything. Teachers need to be very generous people.

There’s a ton more traits that make a good teacher that you can talk about. These are just a few. Go forth and learn more, and add them to your essay!

5. Conclude with the things you still need to learn. Here’s how.

One more thing: good teachers are constantly learning. As someone studying to be a teacher, you need to remember that there’s a long way to go before you have all the answers. Heck, I’ve been a teacher for nearly a decade and I’m not even half way towards knowing everything about being a good teacher.

So, conclude your essay by highlighting that you understand what the role of a teacher is in society and the key competencies required of a teacher; but then go further and mention your enthusiasm to learn more about the profession over the coming years.

Here’s 5 things you can mention that you still need to learn:

How to teach difficult students. Some students hate school – mostly because of their terrible experiences in the past. You need to learn to get through to difficult students, and this takes time and patience to learn the art of inspiring the uninspired.
How to work with difficult parents. Oh boy, you’ll have a lot of these. You can highlight this as one of the key things you want to work on in the coming years: again, you’ll need to draw on that skill of patience (as well as the skill of diplomacy ) when it comes time to deal with an angry parent.
Diverse strategies for teaching. There are a lot of different ways to go about teaching. Over the years you’ll pick up on the various strategies and tricks different teachers have to help children learn.
Classroom management. This is one of the hardest things young teachers need to learn. And really, it just takes time. Discuss how this is something you want to focus on, and how you’ll use mentors to really work on this skill.
What works and what doesn’t. Great teachers have this intuitive knowledge about what works and what doesn’t, all based upon their deep experience and trial-and-error. The only way to learn to teach is to do it. Over the coming years, you’ll be learning about this. A lot.

You’ll only need one or two paragraphs on this final point, but it’s a great way to end your essay on why you want to become a teacher. It’ll show your humility and eagerness to take on one of the noblest professions in the world.

If you want to learn to write a top notch conclusion, you might also like my post on the 5 C’s Conclusion method .

Before you finish up your essay, you might want to check out my awesome posts on how to improve your essays, like these ones:

How to write a killer Introduction
My perfect paragraph formula , and
How to edit your essay like a pro .

I promised 19 thoughtful points to make in your essay about why you want to be a teacher. Here they are, all summed up in one final list:

Say you want to help children learn more effectively.
Say you want to ensure children have positive mentors.
Say you want to improve children’s lives.
Say you want to help future generations solve the problems of today.
Say you want to help the future generations become good citizens.
Say you want to inspire future generations to create a more equal world.
Say you want to give back to the community you grew up in.
Say you want to be a part of helping your community thrive.
Say you want to be a part of your community’s decision-making processes.
Say you want to share your patience with your students.
Say you want to share your compassion with your students.
Say you want to learn from your students (be ‘open minded’)
Say you want to share your enthusiasm for learning with your students.
Say you want to share your generosity with your students.
Say you’re interested in learning how to teach difficult students.
Say you’re interested in learning how to work with difficult parents.
Say you’re interested in learning diverse strategies for teaching,
Say you’re interested in learning to master classroom management.
Say you’re interested in learning what works and what doesn’t in teaching.

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 5 Top Tips for Succeeding at University
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 50 Durable Goods Examples
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 100 Consumer Goods Examples
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 30 Globalization Pros and Cons

Classroom Q&A

With larry ferlazzo.

In this EdWeek blog, an experiment in knowledge-gathering, Ferlazzo will address readers’ questions on classroom management, ELL instruction, lesson planning, and other issues facing teachers. Send your questions to [email protected]. Read more from this blog.

Response: ‘I Love My Job’ as a Teacher

(This is the first post in a three-part series)

The new “question-of-the-week” is:

If you had to do it all over again, would you still become a teacher? Why or why not?

All of us can sometimes have second thoughts about the choices we’ve made in life. This series will consider that question as it relates to the teaching profession.

Today’s contributors are Shaeley Santiago, Anne Jenks, Sarah Thomas, Dr. Margarita Bianco and Stephen Lazar. You can listen to a 10-minute conversation I had with PJ, Stephanie and Megan on my BAM! Radio Show . You can also find a list of, and links to, previous shows here. By the way, you can also now listen to the show on Google Play and Stitcher , in addition to iTunes.

Personally, I’ve never had second thoughts about becoming a teacher.

And I’ve also never had second thoughts about entering it as a second career. The experience I gained during my nineteen years as a community organizer has clearly made me a better educator in many ways. That knowledge informs my instruction and reinforces the priority I place on building relationships. And the ups-and-downs of organizing definitely prepared me for the pyschological stresses of the classroom (by the way, you might be interested in a two-part series on career-changers entering the teaching field that previously appeared in this column).

Response From Shaeley Santiago

Shaeley Santiago is an ESL Instructional Coach and Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) for the Ames Community School District in Ames, Iowa. Prior to becoming a coach, she was an ESL teacher at Ames High School for 10 years. She is a big fan of social media for teachers; you can follow her on Twitter at @HSeslteacher :

Absolutely! When I first became a teacher, I did not see myself staying in the profession long term. However, eighteen years into the job, I cannot see myself doing anything else. Why the change of heart? I have seen firsthand the effect a quality education has on students, and I am passionate about ensuring all students reap the benefits of school. Education is a pathway of hope, an equalizer in terms of opportunities for the future. Without an adequate education, earnings potential and quality of life are adversely impacted.

Having worked in education and seen where we fall short, I am motivated to ensure that educators do an even better job reaching each and every student. Typically, subgroups such as low SES, students of color, and English Language Learners (ELLs) are populations that struggle in our schools. The challenge of addressing their needs in a systematic fashion is one that provides meaning to my job. Some people might be discouraged by this daunting challenge, but I have found that working as a team with other teachers, instructional coaches, and administrators provides a support system to help me deal with the frustrations that could lead to burnout.

For those who are not so sure about becoming a teacher, I would encourage you to look beyond the forms, meetings, grading, and other mundane aspects of teaching. Instead, I would ask you to consider how you might be able to impact the future of your students. Think of the influence you could have on those who might be struggling to find their own purpose in life or to look beyond their current circumstances and imagine what they might someday become, thanks in part to the experiences and skills you provide them through your lessons. Imagine the excitement of a student working under your guidance and encouragement who struggles to read fluently but begins to make noticeable progress. As you work regularly with this student, you note the effort and intensity of focus that may have been lacking previously. You cannot help but to feel even more motivated to make sure the student reaches his goal.

Seeing the growth and progress of my own students, I have been inspired to develop my teaching skills. The desire to become more myself so that I can better help others is at the heart of my passion for education. Looking back on the teacher I was eighteen years ago, I know I have grown, but I also acknowledge areas where I still need to improve. In other words, there is still more work to be done, and I am committed to doing everything I can to ensure the success of students in my school district. That’s why I would (and do) still choose to be a teacher.

Response From Anne Jenks

Anne Jenks is an educator with twenty-six years experience in teaching and school administration. She was the 2015 CUE Site Leader of the Year and the 2013 ACSA Region 13 Elementary School Principal of the Year. Currently, she is working as a consultant with an emphasis on edtech integration and STEM:

In June, I retired from teaching and school administration after a twenty-six-year career.

I became a teacher in my forties and was living in Arizona with my husband and two children at the time. I had felt that I was becoming too insular and involved with my family and wanted to do some kind of volunteer work. After looking around for something that interested me, I decided to volunteer for Project Literacy US. This was an organization that paired a person who could not read with one that could. I was assigned to work with a sixteen-year-old boy who had dropped out of school at thirteen to become a roofer. He read at a first grade level. The boy was working as a busboy at a local restaurant at the time, and I was managing a small home improvement business. I had a BA in communications and had never thought of being a teacher.

As the program was not connected with a school, we would meet at the local library. There were some basic materials that I had through Project Literacy US. We began with these and moved on as he progressed. Once, while I was waiting for him to arrive, I checked out a copy of I, Claudius by Robert Graves. When my student arrived, he asked me what the book was about. I described the plot, and I could see that wonderful look that people get when they want to know more. He asked me questions about the story. This really inspired me. I went home and told my husband that I wanted to go back to school and become a teacher. He agreed and I enrolled in the Prescott College Adult Degree Program and continued to work full time while going to classes in the evenings. It took me about fourteen months of classes and two rounds of student teaching to get my credentials, as I had applied for both elementary and high school.

I was hired to teach sixth grade almost immediately after finishing my coursework. I did this for three years until we moved to northern California where I had a variety of jobs including a stint at an Adult Degree Program, Independent Study, a 5th/6th/7th/8th grade combination class in a tiny school with only sixty-seven students in grades one through eight, and sixth and seventh grade in a middle school. Later, I moved to southern California to get my administrative credential and taught a 5/6 combination class in a large urban school until I became an administrator for the final thirteen years of my career.

Would I do it again? Without hesitation. I have had a variety of assignments in two different states and five school districts. Each has been unique and each has been fulfilling. I have never been bored because every day was filled with challenges and rewards. I have worked with thousands of students of all different races, religions, and cultures and amazing teachers and colleagues. Because of this, my life has been enriched. I have learned as much or more from them as they have from me. I will be forever grateful to my first student, whom I worked with for two years until he reached an independent reading level. He was the inspiration that caused me to make a life-changing decision and become a teacher - the greatest profession that there is.

Response From Sarah Thomas

Sarah-Jane Thomas, PhD is a Regional Technology Coordinator in Prince George’s County Public Schools. Sarah is also a Google Certified Innovator, Google Education Trainer, and founder of the EduMatch project, which promotes connection and collaboration among educators around the world. Through EduMatch, Sarah has published several collaborative and individual books, and serves as President on the Board of Directors for EduMatch Foundation, Inc. Sarah is also on the leadership team of the ISTE Digital Equity PLN, and Affiliate Faculty at Loyola University in Maryland:

If I had to do it all over again, I would absolutely become a teacher. When I was younger, I wanted to be a famous singer or movie star, but became much more introverted later in life. In undergrad, I majored in Radio-TV-Film, and worked at a cable access TV station. For a while, I flirted with the idea of law school, even taking the LSAT at one point. However, by the end of my studies, I had the itch to go into the classroom. Looking back, almost every job I had as a teenager and young adult involved working with kids in some capacity.

After graduation, I immediately enrolled into a Master’s program for Intercultural Communication. One day, while walking down the stairs, I saw a flyer recruiting for an alternative certification program, so I decided to apply. Long story short, I was accepted into their program. There was a period of adjustment, but I’m so thankful for all of my experiences.

Response From Dr. Margarita Bianco

Dr. Margarita Bianco is an associate professor in the School of Education and Human Development at the University of Colorado Denver and Founder/ Executive Director of Pathways2Teaching [ http://www.Pathways2Teaching.com ]. Her research interests include strategies to recruit and retain teachers of Color and Grow Your Own teacher programs for high school students of color in urban and rural communities. Dr. Bianco was recently named the Timmerhaus Teaching Ambassador for the University of Colorado:

Without hesitation, my answer is yes! I started my journey as a classroom teacher nearly 40 years ago and over the years I have taught students at every grade level from K-12 in some of the most underserved public schools across the country. As an associate professor at the University of Colorado Denver, my work is now focused on teacher preparation and developing the Pathways2Teaching program, a concurrent enrollment program specifically designed to encourage high school students of Color to consider becoming teachers. So, not only would I do it all again, I am also deeply invested in making sure the next generation of teachers would do it all again too.

In many ways, my decision to become a teacher was to be the teacher I never had but- always wanted. Schools never felt like a welcoming place for me. I disliked school. I was bored and ignored and came very close to dropping out multiple times. Instead of being encouraged to stay in school, graduate, and go on to college, I was told by my high school counselor, “You are not college material.” I remember feeling the sting of those 5 words and wondered if it was true. I almost believed him.

Sadly, my negative experience in school is not unique. For many students of color, schools do not always feel welcoming or safe. One only needs to examine national or state data by race, ethnicity and socioeconomic status to see the disproportionate rates of school disciplinary actions, suspensions, special education placements, and lower graduation rates for students of color to better understand the level of disenfranchisement often felt by students. Why would someone who looks back on her school experience with such distain want to return to the school spaces I tried so hard to leave?

From the start, I saw my role as a classroom teacher to flip this script. On the macro level, I was motivated to challenge the inequities that existed in public schools. On the micro level, I wanted to create classroom environments where students felt encouraged, respected, challenged, and safe. As a Latina, I wanted my students to have access to a teacher who shared and understood many aspects of their lived experiences.

Yes, I would do it all again and now encourage high school students to consider becoming teachers too. I share my story with students in the hope that they too can find purpose in flipping the script.

Response From Stephen Lazar

Stephen Lazar is a National Board Certified Social Studies and English teacher at Harvest Collegiate High School in NYC, and is pursuing his Ph.D. in History at the CUNY Graduate Center:

Yes. Unquestionably yes.

I became a teacher because I believed that what we do matters. I wrote the following towards the end of my student teaching experience, and somehow fourteen years later I still believe every word of it:

“The future is filtered through the walls of our schools. Schools are perhaps the primary socializing institution in our society. While the family and religion also play prominent roles in determining who people are, it is through the act of educating that youth are welcomed into the world that everyone in this country shares. The way in which we choose to educate our children will serve in many ways to create this shared world. If we desire to live in a world characterized by active democratic participation, critical evaluation of authority and the status quo, and social justice and equality, then we must find ways to mirror, question, and explore these notions in our schools.”

“I believe that an education is a wonderfully unpredictable act. It is the unpredictability of action that gives hope for positive change in the world. One never knows the answer they will receive to a question. This is in many ways the beauty of education. It is through this questioning, through education, that we welcome students into the world that we share, and hand over to them the responsibility and awesome power to begin something new - to create, question, answer, write, speak, analyze, think, and be critical in ways that can never be predicted.”

But while potentially grandiose notions of purpose are what got me started, and are what get me through the hardest times, to be honest, what keeps me a teacher is that I love my job. It is fun, challenging, and interesting. Every student I teach is different, which keeps me engaged and on my toes. Students find new ways to make me laugh every year.

Finally, being a teacher gives me a meaningful and reasonable life. Every person I know who is not a teacher is constantly dealing with some anxiety about the next job, or whether the current job is what they want to be doing. The constant pressure of other white collar work to move up seems to lead to a perpetual state of dissatisfaction which I have never really experienced as a teacher. My goal as a teacher is to constantly be a better teacher for my students, but that fundamental work does not, and will not, change. And while I’ll never get rich being a teacher, I am paid enough to live a reasonable comfortable life, and can look forward to a secure retirement.

Thanks to Shaeley, Anne, Sarah, Margarita and Stephen for their contributions!

Please feel free to leave a comment with your reactions to the topic or directly to anything that has been said in this post.

Consider contributing a question to be answered in a future post. You can send one to me at [email protected] . When you send it in, let me know if I can use your real name if it’s selected or if you’d prefer remaining anonymous and have a pseudonym in mind.

You can also contact me on Twitter at @Larryferlazzo .

Anyone whose question is selected for this weekly column can choose one free book from a number of education publishers.

Education Week has published a collection of posts from this blog, along with new material, in an e-book form. It’s titled Classroom Management Q&As: Expert Strategies for Teaching .

Just a reminder--you can subscribe and receive updates from this blog via email or RSS Reader. And, if you missed any of the highlights from the first six years of this blog, you can see a categorized list below. They don’t include ones from this current year, but you can find those by clicking on the “answers” category found in the sidebar.

This Year’s Most Popular Q&A Posts

Classroom Management Advice

Race & Gender Challenges

Implementing The Common Core

Best Ways To Begin The School Year

Best Ways To End The School Year

Student Motivation & Social Emotional Learning

Teaching Social Studies

Project-Based Learning

Using Tech In The Classroom

Parent Engagement In Schools

Teaching English Language Learners

Student Assessment

Brain-Based Learning

Reading Instruction

Writing Instruction

Education Policy Issues

Differentiating Instruction

Math Instruction

Science Instruction

Advice For New Teachers

Author Interviews

Entering The Teaching Profession

Administrator Leadership

Teacher Leadership

Relationships In Schools

Professional Development

Instructional Strategies

I am also creating a Twitter list including all contributers to this column .

Look for Part Two in a few days.

The opinions expressed in Classroom Q&A With Larry Ferlazzo are strictly those of the author(s) and do not reflect the opinions or endorsement of Editorial Projects in Education, or any of its publications.

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Becoming a Teacher: What I Learned about Myself During the Pandemic

Now, more than ever, we need to hear the voices of preservice teachers as well as in-service teachers during this pandemic. How has the pandemic affected them? In what ways has the pandemic enabled them to think about the need to really focus on what matters, what’s important? What were the gains and losses? These are very important questions for our time. In this essay, Alyssa Smith, a senior studying early childhood education, attempts to address the lessons learned from her junior year, focusing on the positive aspects of her coursework and demonstrating an imaginative, growth mindset. This essay highlights the power of students’ reflection on their own learning. But I think it does so much more meaningful contemplation than we might expect of our students in “normal” times. Alyssa gains a new appreciation for this kind of active reflection—the opportunity to think more critically; to be more thoughtful; to stop, step back, catch her breath, and rethink things. As a teacher educator and her mentor, I believe this essay represents how the gift of time to stop and reflect can open space to digest what has been experienced, and how the gift of reflective writing can create a deeper level of thinking about how experiences integrate with one’s larger narrative as a person.

About the Author

Andrew Stremmel, PhD, is professor in early childhood education at South Dakota State University. His research is in teacher action research and Reggio Emilia-inspired, inquiry-based approaches to early childhood teacher education. He is an executive editor of Voices of Practitioners .

I’ve always known I was meant to be a teacher. I could feel my passion guide my work and lead my heart through my classes. So why did I still feel as if something was missing? During the fall of my junior year, the semester right before student teaching, I began to doubt my ability to be a great teacher, as I did not feel completely satisfied in my work. What I did not expect was a global pandemic that would shut down school and move all coursework online. I broke down. I wanted to do more than simply be a good student. I wanted to learn to be a great teacher. How was I supposed to discover my purpose and find what I was missing when I couldn’t even attend my classes? I began to fret that I would never become the capable and inspirational educator that I strived to be, when I was missing the firsthand experience of being in classrooms, interacting with children, and collaborating with peers.

It wasn’t until my first full semester being an online student that I realized the pandemic wasn’t entirely detrimental to my learning. Two of my early childhood education courses, Play and Inquiry and Pedagogy and Curriculum, allowed limited yet meaningful participation in a university lab school as well as engagement with problems of substance that require more intense thinking, discussion, analysis, and thoughtful action. These problems, which I briefly discuss below, presented challenges, provocations, possibilities, and dilemmas to be pondered, and not necessarily resolved. Specifically, they pushed me to realize that the educational question for our time is not, “What do I need to know about how to teach?” Rather, it is, “What do I need to know about myself in the context of this current pandemic?” I was therefore challenged to think more deeply about who I wanted to be as a teacher and who I was becoming, what I care about and value, and how I will conduct myself in the classroom with my students.

These three foundations of teaching practice (who I want to be, what I value, and how I will conduct myself) were illuminated by a question that was presented to us students in one of the very first classes of the fall 2020 semester: “What’s happening right now in your experience that will help you to learn more about yourself and who you are becoming?” This provocation led me to discover that, while the COVID-19 pandemic brought to light (and at times magnified) many fears and insecurities I had as a prospective teacher, it also provided me with unique opportunities, time to reflect, and surprising courage that I feel would not otherwise have been afforded and appreciated.

Although I knew I wanted to be a teacher, I had never deliberately pondered the idea of what kind of teacher I wanted to be. I held the core values of being an advocate for children and helping them grow as confident individuals, but I still had no idea what teaching style I was to present. Fortunately, the pandemic enabled me to view my courses on play and curriculum as a big “look into the mirror” to discern what matters and what was important about becoming a teacher.

As I worked through the rest of the course, I realized that this project pushed me to think about my identity as an educator in relation to my students rather than simply helping me understand my students, as I initially thought. Instead, a teacher’s identity is formed in relation to or in relationship with our students: We take what we know about our students and use it to shape ourselves and how we teach. I found that I had to take a step back and evaluate my own perceptions and beliefs about children and who I am in relation to them. Consequently, this motivated me to think about myself as a classroom teacher during the COVID-19 pandemic. What did I know about children that would influence the way I would teach them?

I thought about how children were resilient, strong, and adaptable, possessing an innate ability to learn in nearly any setting. While there were so many uncertainties and fear surrounding them, they adapted to mask-wearing, limited children in the classroom, and differentiated tasks to limit cross-contamination. Throughout, the children embodied being an engaged learner. They did not seem to focus on what they were missing; their limitless curiosity could not keep them from learning. Yet, because young children learn primarily through relationships, they need some place of learning that helps them to have a connection with someone who truly knows, understands, and cares about them. Thus, perhaps more than any lesson, I recognized my relationship with children as more crucial. By having more time to think about children from this critical perspective, I felt in my heart the deeper meaning children held to me.

My compassion for children grew, and a greater respect for them took shape, which overall is what pushed me to see my greater purpose for who I want to be as an educator. The pandemic provided time to develop this stronger vision of children, a clearer understanding of how they learn, and how my identity as a teacher is formed in relationship with children. I don’t think I would have been able to develop such a rich picture of how I view children without an in-depth exploration of my identity, beliefs, and values.

In my curriculum course, I was presented a different problem that helped me reflect on who I am becoming as an educator. This was presented as a case study where we as students were asked the question, “Should schools reopen amidst the COVID-19 pandemic?” This was a question that stumped school districts around the nation, making me doubt that I would be able to come up with anything that would be remotely practical. I now was experiencing another significant consequence of the pandemic: a need for new, innovative thinking on how to address state-wide academic issues. My lack of confidence, paired with the unknowns presented by the pandemic, made me feel inadequate to take on this problem of meaning.

To address this problem, I considered more intentionally and reflectively what I knew about how children learn; issues of equity and inequality that have led to a perceived achievement gap; the voices of both teachers and families; a broader notion of what school might look like in the “new normal”; and the role of the community in the education of young children. Suddenly, I was thinking in a more critical way about how to address this problem from the mindset of an actual and more experienced teacher, one who had never faced such a conundrum before. I knew that I had to design a way to allow children to come back into a classroom setting, and ultimately find inspiration for learning in this new normal. I created this graphic (above) to inform families and teachers why it is vital to have students return to school. As a result, I became an educator. I was now thinking, feeling, and acting as a teacher. This case study made me think about myself and who I am becoming as a teacher in a way that was incredibly real and relevant to what teachers were facing. I now found inspiration in the COVID-19 pandemic, as it unlocked elements of myself that I did not know existed.

John Dewey (1916) has been attributed to stating, “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.” Learning may begin in the classroom, but it does not end there. Likewise, teaching is not a role, but a way of being. The ability to connect with children and to engage them meaningfully depends less on the methods we use than on the degree to which we know and trust ourselves and are willing to share that knowledge with them. That comes through continually reflecting on who we are in relation to children and their families, and what we do in the classroom to create more meaningful understanding of our experiences. By embodying the role of being an educator, I grew in ways that classroom curriculum couldn't prepare me for. Had it not been for the pandemic, this might not have been possible.

Dewey, J. 1916. Democracy and Education: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Education . New York: MacMillan.

Alyssa Marie Smith is currently an early childhood education student studying at South Dakota State University. She has been a student teacher in the preschool lab on campus, and now works as a kindergarten out of school time teacher in this same lab school. In the fall, she plans to student teach in an elementary setting, and then go on to teach in her own elementary classroom.

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I Want to Be a Teacher: 10 Essays

Do you want to become a teacher? So do the university and college students who wrote these essays.

Here we share 10 essays from education students who explain their reasons for wanting to become teachers. In each essay, a student discusses the reasons why they want to be a teacher and their motivation for studying towards their education degree.

The essays share similar themes of passion, commitment, and perseverance in pursuing a career in teaching. We hope you find them informative, useful and inspiring!

1. Future Leaders

The first essay discusses the importance of being a difference-maker and inspiring future leaders through a classroom that celebrates individuality and inclusion.

In a society where diversity is often not embraced, I strive to be the change that we need to see. This is why I have chosen to pursue a career in teaching. My goal is to be a role model of compassion and support for every individual in my classroom; to make sure that my students know that they are valued for who they are.

As I begin my journey as a university student, my focus is firmly fixed on my future students. Even though I haven’t met them yet, they inspire me to work hard in my studies and to remain hopeful for what lies ahead. I am determined to create a learning environment that fosters creative thinking and celebrates the unique qualities that each of my students possess.

As a teacher, my aim is to have a positive impact on the next generation, motivating and encouraging them to succeed and pursue their dreams while also making a difference in the world. I believe that teaching the value of inclusivity and the power of kindness will help to shape my students into forward-thinking and well-educated members of society.

Ultimately, I aspire to help create a world where diversity is not only accepted but celebrated, where every individual is valued and appreciated for their unique talents and qualities. Through my role as a teacher, I am confident that I can play a part in making this vision a reality. I’m excited to embark on this journey with my future students.

2. For My Students

Essay number two highlights the student’s personal experience of being inspired by teachers in high school who helped her thrive and how she aims to do the same for her future students, particularly those from low-income schools.

As I reflect on my journey towards becoming a teacher, I realize that my ultimate motivation is not my own success, but the success of my future students. When faced with challenging coursework or long hours of studying, it’s the thought of being a positive influence on their lives that keeps me going.

My high school experience was one of confusion and uncertainty. I know that many other students in similar situations need guidance and support. No child should feel lost or hopeless when it comes to their future. As an educator, it’s my responsibility to help them navigate the path towards success. I understand the struggles of those from low-income backgrounds, and am committed to helping these students achieve more than they thought possible.

I plan to work in a school that faces similar challenges to the one I attended. These schools often lack the resources needed to provide students with the best opportunities. But I aim to be a resource for them. My hope is to be an inspiration to my students, to show them that anything is possible with hard work and determination. I want them to see that kindness and respect can go a long way, and that helping others can be a rewarding experience.

As a teacher, I want to be the one my students remember for the rest of their lives. I want to be the teacher who helped them achieve their goals and encouraged them to strive for more. My personal success will be measured by the success of my students. If even one student decides to pursue higher education or achieve more than they ever thought possible, then I will have achieved my dream. I know that being a teacher will be challenging, but it is the thought of positively influencing the lives of my students that will keep me going.

3. ESL Children

The third essay is about the goal of becoming an English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) teacher to help young ESL children succeed in a world where an education in their native language is often unavailable.

I’m a Hispanic young woman working towards my goal of earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Bilingual Education. At times, I definitely have felt a slowing in my motivation. But, every time that happens, I think about my end goal and that gets me moving again.

I recall one middle school class where a boy caught my attention. He remained disengaged and would never participate in class. After interacting with him, I learned that he spoke broken English with a Spanish accent, and that he struggled to understand his teacher’s lessons because they were delivered in English. It was clear that he had given up due to his past experiences.

Thinking about that boy and the struggles he faced inspires me to keep working hard. I am determined to become an English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) teacher so that I can make a positive impact on young ESL children and show them that they can succeed in this world. I refuse to let another child believe that they are incapable of learning simply because they do not speak English fluently. Children are the future, and it is my goal to make sure that the future includes all children, regardless of their first language.

I know that pursuing a degree in Bilingual Education will not be easy, but I am ready to put in the work. I believe that being able to communicate with and support non-native English speakers will be an essential part of my role as a teacher. It will be a privilege to help them understand the material and overcome language barriers. In the end, the reward of seeing my students succeed and grow will be more than enough to keep me motivated.

4. Want to Give

Essay 4 expresses a desire to teach English literature and the importance of giving back to others through teaching.

Dreams are not just about our own personal desires and aspirations. They also have the power to inspire and uplift others, and this is something that has always been important to me.

Throughout history, some of the most important and influential people have had a vision for the future that went beyond their own individual success. Martin Luther King, Jr. is a prime example of this. In his famous “I have a Dream” speech, he spoke not just about his own dreams, but about the dreams of a whole community.

A desire to help and inspire others has been a driving force in my life. When I was in college, I was also caring for my disabled mother, who was a religious studies professor. Despite the challenges of being a caregiver and a student at the same time, I was motivated by my desire to teach English literature. My mother’s influence also taught me the importance of diligence and steadfastness in pursuing my goals.

As I graduated from California Baptist University with my degree in English literature, my mother was facing a new challenge: she had been diagnosed with throat cancer. But even in the face of this difficult news, she continued to encourage me to finish my final paper so that I could graduate. With her love and support, as well as my own religious faith, I was able to complete my degree and move forward towards my dream of becoming a teacher.

For me, the idea of giving back is a central part of my dream. I believe that teaching is a way to share what I have learned with others and to inspire them to pursue their own dreams. Life is full of challenges, but by striving towards our goals and dreams, we can make a positive impact on the world around us. This is what motivates me to keep studying and working towards my dream of becoming a teacher.

5. Giving Back

The fifth essay discusses a young woman’s personal experience of being a special education student in primary school and how that has motivated her to become a teacher who can make a difference in the lives of many children.

I believe that my motivation to become a teacher stems from my own experiences as a special education student. As a child, I often felt lost and hopeless in school, but I was lucky to have amazing teachers who helped me succeed. Their support inspired me to want to become a teacher myself so that I could help other students who were struggling.

Whenever I feel unmotivated, I think of the impact that I can have on children’s lives. I think about the children who are struggling in school, just like I did, and I know that I have the power to make a positive difference in their lives. It’s not just about helping them get good grades; it’s about giving them the confidence and support they need to succeed in all aspects of their lives.

I also find motivation in the fact that every child is unique and has their own set of strengths and challenges. As a teacher, I want to create an environment where all students feel seen and heard, and where they can thrive in their own way. I want to help them discover their strengths and build on them, while also providing support and guidance in areas where they may struggle.

In the end, my motivation is not just about me and my own success, but about the success of my future students. I believe that every child deserves a chance to succeed, and I want to be the teacher who helps them achieve their dreams.

6. Good Morning

Teacher giving model wind power demonstration to students

In Essay 6, the author discusses the flaws they see in the current education system and their desire to become a teacher to create positive change from within.

I completely understand what it feels like to not be considered “naturally intelligent.” I too have never been the kind of person who can easily get good grades without putting in the hard work. But that’s precisely what motivates me to study harder and push myself to be the best I can be.

For me, that motivation comes from my dream of becoming a primary school teacher. I want to be the kind of teacher who can inspire children to pursue their passions and achieve their dreams, just like my teachers did for me. When I see the joy on my siblings’ faces when they understand a new concept, it makes me even more determined to pursue my dream.

Despite the long hours of studying and the sacrifice of my free time, I never lose sight of my end goal. The thought of being able to introduce myself to a new class of students and say, “Good morning class, my name is Ms. Meyers,” makes all the hard work worth it. I know that I can make a real difference in the lives of my students, and that is what keeps me going.

So, even though I may not be a naturally gifted student, I know that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve my dreams and become the kind of teacher I have always wanted to be.

7. Listen to Them

In the 7th essay, the future education explains their childhood dream of becoming a teacher and how they have pursued this dream through their education.

As someone who dreams of becoming a teacher, my motivation stems from the desire to be a positive influence on my students’ lives. Through volunteering with local youth organisations, I’ve had the opportunity to interact with teenagers and to be a role model and advocate for them. These experiences have only served to strengthen my passion for teaching.

One of the most rewarding things is being able to speak with teens about their lives and listen to their experiences. I remember how much it meant to me when I had someone who took the time to listen and provide guidance when I was a student. As a future teacher, I want to be as engaged as possible in my students’ growth and to treat them with the respect and care they deserve.

One of the challenges I’ve noticed when working with some of the students from these organisations is that they come from unique social and economic backgrounds that can make them feel ostracised by their peers. By being aware of their stories and experiences, I believe I can create an inclusive environment that recognises and values the diversity that each student brings to the classroom.

Through my experiences, I’ve learned that it’s not enough to just teach the curriculum; as an educator, I want to make a positive impact on my students’ lives and help them become confident and capable individuals. I believe that by being an attentive listener, providing guidance and support, and embracing diversity, I can help my future students achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

8. Life Coach

In the 8th essay, the author discusses their passion for teaching and how they want to empower young minds to think critically, creatively, and independently.

As I progress in my studies towards becoming a high school teacher, my motivation only grows stronger. Knowing that I have the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of teenagers, who are in the process of shaping their future and the future of generations to come, is a huge responsibility that I don’t take lightly.

When I think about the immense responsibility of being a mentor to my students, it can be overwhelming. But I believe that the potential positive outcomes far outweigh the challenges. For many teenagers, school is a safe haven and I want to be a teacher that my students can look up to and trust. I want to be the teacher that they can confide in and feel comfortable with, knowing that I am there for them, no matter what.

Having had the experience of not always feeling safe and secure at home, I want to be that support system for my students. I want them to know that they can rely on me to be there for them, to listen and to offer guidance. I believe that this will be a long-term effect, as my students will not only find comfort in my class but also find the motivation to continue to strive in their studies and reach their full potential.

Reflecting on my own high school experience, I remember Coach Morgan, who was funny, practical, and nice. He was the kind of teacher that every student trusted, and I want to be that kind of teacher for my students. I want to be the teacher that my students can count on, the one who they can trust and the one who they will always remember as a positive influence in their lives. It is this desire to be that teacher, to make that impact, that drives me to study and work hard to achieve my goal.

9. The Motivator

Essay 9 emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with students to create a positive learning environment and how the future educator wants to do this as a teacher.

As a high school senior, I’m at a turning point in my life where I’m excited about what the future holds for me. After much thought and consideration, I’ve decided to pursue an online teaching degree in Primary Education at university. It’s an opportunity for me to give back to the community and make a positive difference in the lives of young children.

Looking back on my own school experiences, I’ve had the privilege of being taught by some truly inspiring individuals who have helped me discover my passion for teaching. These teachers were not just educators, they were role models who motivated and encouraged me to achieve my goals. Their dedication and love for their work have inspired me to follow in their footsteps.

As a future teacher, my goal is to be just as effective as the teachers who have had a profound impact on my life. I want to make a difference in the lives of my students and inspire them to reach their full potential. In today’s world, children need someone to look up to, to encourage and motivate them, and I want to be that person for them.

Knowing that I can be a positive influence in a child’s life is what motivates me to pursue my dreams. I’m determined to succeed, to be a successful university student, and eventually, a successful teacher. I’m excited about what lies ahead, and I’m ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come my way. My university education is the first step towards a bright future, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me.

10. Special Needs

In the final essay, the writer describes their deep sense of calling to become a teacher and how they want to use their skills and talents to inspire and make a positive impact on the lives of their students.

I see him walk into the gym. We make eye contact. His arms open and he smiles as big as he can. He makes his way up the challenging steps on the bleachers to get to me. He hugs me harder than anyone else. He doesn’t judge how I look or what I am wearing. He is truly happy to see me for who I am. He has down syndrome and his name is Kellan.

The moment I met Kellan was a defining one in my life. I had always known that I wanted to make a difference in the world, but in that instant, I realized that the difference I wanted to make was for children like Kellan. His pure joy and acceptance of me, without any judgement, was a transformative experience.

My dream is to create a safe and nurturing environment for all of my students, just as Kellan has shown me. I want to create a classroom where my students feel seen, heard, and understood. I believe that by building strong relationships with my students, I can help them to overcome any obstacle they may face.

Kellan’s resilience and determination are an inspiration to me. I want to help all of my students to develop the same level of self-confidence and to see that they are capable of achieving anything they set their minds to. I want to help my students to develop a growth mindset, to see that mistakes are opportunities to learn and grow, and to never give up on themselves.

Kellan will always hold a special place in my heart. His warm embrace and genuine happiness have left an indelible mark on my soul. I know that my dream of making a difference in the lives of children is not only achievable but also necessary. I will continue to work hard to become the best educator I can be and make a positive impact in the lives of my future students.

I Want to Become a Teacher Because | My Dream Job Essay

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My Dream Job: Becoming An Elementary School Teacher by Regan

Reganof Hattiesburg's entry into Varsity Tutor's June 2017 scholarship contest

My Dream Job: Becoming An Elementary School Teacher by Regan - June 2017 Scholarship Essay

Ever since I was 6 years old, I have dreamed about becoming an elementary school teacher. Growing up, I always saw the countless accomplishments my teachers had made and admired their enthusiasm to inspire students to learn. Ultimately, my experiences as a child grew my interest in the field of teaching. I wanted to be known as a person who focused on children and helped them to reach their highest potential in education and more importantly, life.

Overall, I believe teaching is considered a passion that people have. Teaching is not a job that everyone in the world can do. I love to teach because I ultimately want to make a positive impact on students' lives. I want to be someone they will look up to and remember. I want to teach elementary school because I love the curiosity that young students have, and I love to teach these children about events and subjects that have shaped our world today. I believe that I would make a fantastic elementary teacher because I am truly compassionate about students and learning. I care immensely for children's well-being, health needs, physical needs, and also their academic abilities. I genuinely respect that every child is different. I am also very hard-working and diligent; I will never quit until the job I have set out to accomplish is finished.

As a future educator, I want to inspire students to do their best in everything they do. I want students to experience that learning can be enjoyable and presented in a variety of exciting ways. The key thing I strive to make known is that students will succeed with persistence and encouragement. I will always instill encouragement and positive feedback in my classroom in order to make the individual student grow as a person and realize their true talents and abilities.

In the future, I want to teach at South Forrest Attendance Center in Brooklyn, Mississippi, and I would like to teach 4th grade Reading and Social Studies. South Forrest Attendance Center has a special place in my heart. From 1st grade to 8th grade, I attended South Forrest, and the atmosphere of the school is unlike any other elementary school that I have ever experienced. The teachers genuinely care for their students and they have a desire to help every individual succeed in academics and in life. I want to teach at South Forrest Attendance Center because I know that I can make a difference in the lives of students. Many students come from impoverished homes and do not have role models. As an educator, I want to be a teacher that inspires my students to become the best people that they can be. While I am completing my first year of teaching at South Forrest Attendance Center, I plan on taking courses online in order to complete my Master's degree. By receiving this scholarship, I will be able to finish my Bachelor's degree at William Carey University and go on to obtain my Master's degree at a university.

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I Want to Become a Teacher Because | My Dream Job Essay
The short student essays are grouped thematically, forming the top reasons to become a teacher. Top 7 Inspiring Reasons to Become a Teacher. 1. Giving Brings Its Own Rewards. 2. Help Disadvantaged Students. 3. Helping Many People Is Achievable in Teaching. 4.
Essay About Being a Teacher: Top 5 Examples and Prompts
Koh wants students to achieve their full potential; teaching to him is engaging, inspirational, and transparent. He wants readers to know that being a teacher is rewarding yet difficult, and is something he holds close to his heart. 2. Teaching in the Pandemic: ‘This Is Not Sustainable’ by Natasha Singer.
What Inspired You to Become a Teacher: [Essay Example], 726 ...
An excellent teacher is someone who facilitates thinking and engage minds, not just someone who explains. Not someone who simply demonstrates, but cultivates conceptual learning. An excellent teacher is someone who inspires, encourages, supports struggle, and encourages risks. An excellent teacher goes the extra mile and makes sacrifices.
19 Top Ideas for a “Why I want to be a Teacher” Essay
Here are the 19 best reasons you would want to be a teacher that you can include in your essay: To help children learn more effectively. To ensure children have positive mentors. To improve children’s lives. To help future generations solve the problems of today. To help the future generations become good citizens.
My Career as a Teacher Essay - 1254 Words | Bartleby
1254 Words. 6 Pages. Open Document. As I begin my rewarding career as I teacher, I sit and reflect on what my goals and priorities are in the classroom. I am excited to be engaged in a future career where I can implement my own beliefs and mold the future into something extremely positive. I believe the most important aspects that I want to ...
Response: ‘I Love My Job’ as a Teacher - Education Week
With Larry Ferlazzo. In this EdWeek blog, an experiment in knowledge-gathering, Ferlazzo will address readers’ questions on classroom management, ELL instruction, lesson planning, and other ...
Becoming a Teacher: What I Learned about Myself ... - NAEYC
This case study made me think about myself and who I am becoming as a teacher in a way that was incredibly real and relevant to what teachers were facing. I now found inspiration in the COVID-19 pandemic, as it unlocked elements of myself that I did not know existed. John Dewey (1916) has been attributed to stating, “Education is not ...
10 Reasons To Become a Teacher You Can Include in an Essay
Discussing your desire to build community in your essay can show prospective employers or admissions committees your interest in giving back and contributing positively to your local area. 2. Exercise creativity. Teachers regularly use creative thinking skills.
I Want to Be a Teacher: 10 Essays | Lerna Courses
It is this desire to be that teacher, to make that impact, that drives me to study and work hard to achieve my goal. 9. The Motivator. Essay 9 emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with students to create a positive learning environment and how the future educator wants to do this as a teacher.
My Dream Job: Becoming An Elementary School Teacher by Regan
My Dream Job: Becoming An Elementary School Teacher by Regan - June 2017 Scholarship Essay. Ever since I was 6 years old, I have dreamed about becoming an elementary school teacher. Growing up, I always saw the countless accomplishments my teachers had made and admired their enthusiasm to inspire students to learn.

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I Want to Become a Teacher Because | My Dream Job Essay

1. Giving Brings Its Own Rewards

by Hanna Halliar

by Savannah Stamates

by Charity Latchman

by Katheryn England

by Emma Lillard-Geiser

2. Help Disadvantaged Students

by Ian T Thomason

by Katherine

by Robbie Watson

by Natalie Pelayo

by Abigail Young

3. Helping Many People Is Achievable in Teaching

by Rachel Bayly

by Megan Burns

by Victoria Shoemkaer

4. Lives Can Be Improved by Dedicated Instructors

by Savannah Luree Weverka

by Aaron Banta

by Chelsea Rogers

by Micayla Watroba

5. Promote Lifelong Learning in Young People

by Lesley Martinez-Silva

by Brianna Rivers

by Jennamarie Moody

by Julie Anderson

6. Teachers Are Excellent Role Models

by Teresa Pillifant

by Mo Cabiles

by Gia Sophia Sarris

by Jennifer Wolfert

by Jenyfer Pegg

7. Unlock the Success Potential of Students

by Tamara Vega

by Nicole Gongora

by Madison Sherrill

by Alicia Costin

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19 Top Ideas for a “Why I want to be a Teacher” Essay

1. Definitely do not say “because kids are fun”. Do this instead.

2. Explain how teaching helps the world! Here’s how.

3. Discuss your commitment to community. Here’s how.

4. Discuss the personality traits you think you can bring to the role. Here’s how.

5. Conclude with the things you still need to learn. Here’s how.

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I Want to Be a Teacher: 10 Essays

1. Future Leaders

2. For My Students

3. ESL Children

4. Want to Give

5. Giving Back

6. Good Morning

7. Listen to Them

8. Life Coach

9. The Motivator

10. Special Needs

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