From a young age, I have always known that I wanted to be a teacher. In fact recently, while looking through some of my work from second grade, I found a piece of writing explaining why I wanted to be a teacher. It was mind-blowing that I knew what I wanted to do at the age of seven and actually stuck with that occupation to this point in my life. Helping others has always been something that I’ve wanted to do, but it has also been something that I still question from time to time: should I be an education major? Will I be a “good teacher”? Many college students question whether or not their major fits them, but what happens when you know that you’re doing something that you love, yet still struggle with the constant battle of wondering “is this the ‘perfect’ match?”
Everyone in my life has always been supportive of what I want to do, yet there was always the same question growing up: “why don’t you try being a doctor or lawyer? You’re smart enough!” Whether or not I was “smart enough” was never important to me — I wanted to do something that I loved. I knew that if I was a lawyer or doctor that I wouldn’t necessarily enjoy what I was doing, so that was never an option for me. However, these jobs are typically seen as well-paying occupations, as where teachers don’t get paid as much, which was my family’s main concern. But honestly, money isn’t something that has every really concerned me.
Choosing education as my major was the best choice for me, in my opinion. Learning to overcome the doubt and questions from outside sources is something that I will almost always have to deal with, knowing how I am as a person and the people that I surround myself with. However, I know that what I’m doing is something that I love and it will be the most rewarding for me in the end. Looking at money isn’t something that motivates me. Instead, focusing on how influential I will be in the lives of children is the ultimate reward. I want to make a difference in the world, and for me, accomplishing this starts with educating future generations.
Photo Sources:
https://www.tacoma.uw.edu/sites/default/files/sections/AcademicAffairs/inspire-teach-change.jpg
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