I have had several careers that I wanted to pursue. There were countless dreams that I had. But as I grew older, I realize the one thing I actually want to do with my life is pursue a career in education.

Many people tell me, including my parents, that being a teacher is not the job that I should choose because I "won't get paid enough," or because "it's too tiring." However, I think about these comments and I just think to myself that I should be able to be anything I want to be. It's cliche, but money should not overpower happiness. You should become something that you really want to become and are passionate about. Just because a heart surgeon makes good money, if you don't enjoy the field, you should not put yourself through it.

So many people around me have jobs that they do not enjoy at all. They wake up in the morning, dreading what is about to make up their day. I do not wish to put myself in their shoes; I want to start a new day, excited for what is to come. What would make that happen for me is being an elementary teacher.

I hope this encourages everyone to choose the path that will make you happy in life. Don't let what others say stop you from doing what you want to do!