Why Teach?
Why Teach? I never thought twice about becoming a teacher. Where’s the reward and glamour in that? Until recently, I thought I was bound to have the great job in which I would be recognized on a grand scale, almost famous-like. Becoming a doctor sounded perfect, or maybe an artist like Eouard Manet, or in more modern times a graphic designer like Paul Rand. It was clear that these people were publicly recognized. In my mind teachers didn’t even come close to having the wonderful and rewarding life as those I have mentioned. After many years of trial and error, I realized it wasn’t the fame I was wanting in my life. It was having the satisfaction that I, like Manet, Rand, and some doctors, was making a great, progressive impact on the future generations. Also, knowing this impact was being acknowledged was emotionally fulfilling. This drew me to the conclusion that I want to become a teacher. I haven’t a single doubt about this, and I’m thrilled to finally know this is exactly what I want to do with my life; it’s perfect. Some may say nothing is perfect, but for this I’d have to disagree. Ever since I was a young child, about four or so, and before ever stepping foot into a school, I was asked by my parents and their friends, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Without hesitation or thought I’d reply, “A doctor!” as if it were instinctual or I was programmed. Still to this day my mother told me it was my own choice to pursue a field in medicine, but at age four I’m doubtful I really knew what it meant to be a doctor. I did know it must have sounded pleasing and perfect to the adults seeing that the response and reaction to my answer was positive. So throughout high school, along with the core curriculum, I loaded my schedule with advanced classes; advanced biology, advanced chemistry, advanced calculus, physiology and anatomy. Also came the clubs; National Honor Society, Student Council, French club, science club, tennis team. Some of the classes and clubs were enjoyable while others were just time consuming; nevertheless, done just to fill up a tiny bit of space on the college application. Again, I didn’t know at the time what drove me into thinking it was the right choice to join all these classes and club, but I did know I got a good response from the adults, and I was bombarded with the phrase, “It’ll look good on your college application.” I’m not regretful of any of these choices I made considering I gained enough knowledge to graduate in the one percentile of my class and get a few scholarships to get into the college of my choice and the only college I applied to, Indiana University.