When I tell people I’m an education major, I get one of two responses: “That makes so much sense,” and “You aren’t going into your career for the money.” Both can feel a bit backhanded. This article examines the stereotypes, setbacks, and misconceptions of being an education major.
Many people assume that majoring in education is a breeze, an easy four years of school. Compared to STEM, law, or even business, the rigor may be portrayed as lesser. However, education is just as important as any of those fields. People say educators shape the future, and that’s an extremely accurate statement. Reflecting on my 14 years of schooling, I’m eternally grateful to the dedicated teachers and professors who genuinely shaped me into who I am today.
My first grade teacher was incredibly sweet. He not only taught me to read, but also guided me through the dramatic, emotional woes of being 6. Middle school was awkward for most, but my supportive eighth grade English teacher helped us navigate a major transitional period. Many high school teachers taught me valuable life lessons. My senior year English teacher taught me the importance of meeting deadlines. My math teacher of two years taught me that it’s okay to ask for help, especially when you need it (stats was really rough). My freshman year science teacher encouraged me to challenge myself. My guidance counselors always gave me advice, especially when I panicked over nonsensical things. My music teacher taught me the ability to laugh at myself through his wit and dry sense of humor. My social studies teacher, whom I had the honor of having for four years, influenced the profession I wanted to go into. Every professor I’ve had the privilege of learning from has taught me to look beyond the general scope, embrace new perspectives, and think critically. These major figures in my life have shaped who I have become. They weren’t just teachers or professors; they were mentors who guided me through formative parts of my development. People assume education is one of the easiest majors, but they miss its importance. It may not fit the mold of becoming a doctor or lawyer, but educators shape the future doctors and lawyers of the world.
“You’re definitely not going into it for the money.” No, I am not. I wouldn’t describe myself as mushy, but I have a genuine passion for education. Since I was five, I’ve wanted to become a teacher. On every sheet asking, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” the answer has always been a teacher. I’ve always wanted to do work that makes an impact, and in a world where teaching is an increasingly needed profession, that choice to become an educator became even more certain. Last year, I took a class and it shaped my outlook on the way I perceive education: Foundations of Education. Prior to college, I lived in a predominantly white, extremely small, well funded town. The public education I received was top notch. My perspective on education was very ignorant. I assumed that most people in the United States have similar public education. However, this is most definitely not the case. I learned that impoverished areas that are not well funded receive a well below average education. Low funding of public education is one of the most detrimental impacts to the quality of education a person can experience. I understand those who want to make a decent living by going into a field with high salaries, but I believe if you are devoted about your career or what you want to pursue, the dollar amount shouldn’t matter. Feeling fulfillment is a necessity that I strive to achieve. Going into education would satisfy that. No, money doesn’t matter when it comes to my future career. The impact I have as an educator on future generations does.
A common misconception about teaching is that anyone can do it. That is not the case. Teaching is definitely a career that isn’t realistic for many, and some educators are definitely in the wrong field. Teaching takes many characteristics that the average person does not have.
Patience: Many students learn differently, and some teaching styles don’t suit how some learn. Adapting to help all students excel in a subject can take time, and trial and error. This definitely requires patience.
Empathy: a trait that everyone should embody, but many seem to lack. This is essential for teaching. An educator has to understand students’ situations and sympathize with them. The ability to provide not only academic support but also emotional guidance is a must.
Resilience: a trait acquired over time, but important to the profession. Teachers are extremely undervalued for the amount of work they do. We see this through the pay and treatment they receive. However, understanding your impact on students can help you overcome these setbacks and succeed in your career.
Patience, empathy, and resilience are only a few traits educators must have to succeed in their profession; this also means the career path isn’t for everyone.
Teaching is one of the most important professions in the world. Putting aside the paycheck and the idea that it’s the easy way out of college allows society to understand the significance teachers have on the world. We should break stigmas around education.