Any Education major could tell you that we are faced with degrading comments on a daily basis, comments such as “Wow I’m jealous your classes must be so easy,” “So you’re basically going to be a babysitter?” “But you’re so smart..,” and the typical “so you’re okay with being poor?”

Although the people making these arrogant comments mean absolutely no harm, It doesn’t make the comments any less annoying or just plain rude. I’m tired of defending my career choice, so instead of being on the defensive I’ll share all of the amazing reasons why I want to be a teacher.

1. I can think of few other positions that allow you the opportunity to make a difference in the world on such a daily basis.
2. Children are the future, as simple as that. Teachers can positively affect the future by inspiring children and fostering their intelligence and individual traits.
3. I enjoy being with kids; I’m good at working with kids, and I learn a lot from kids.
4. Being surrounded by children all day will grant me the gift of never taking myself too seriously, and will allow me to forever be a kid at heart!
5. Multiple teachers have told me that it is awe-inspiring to witness a student’s “light-bulb moments”, the moments when they finally understand a lesson or concept.
6. There will never be a dull moment, and every day will bring its own triumphs and failures.
7. The humor: I work at a school Aftercare and everyday I leave with multiple stories of the hilarious things that happened that day.
8. When I have my own family one day, I will be able to have a job and also have time with my kids.
9. Being a teacher will allow me to further develop my virtues, such as patience and kindness.
10. Teachers give back to the community on a daily basis.

Finally, in order to address the predictable “but you will be so poor” comment, I’ll borrow a line from the teacher Taylor Mali who, in answer to the question “what do you make?” responded, “I make a difference. What do you make?”