Going to college to be a teacher is a lot more work than people tell you when you're picking a major. From the time I was in grade school I wanted to be a teacher and thankfully, nothing has changed. I have a passion for school and a desire to learn. However, being an Education Major has many comments that come with it.
1. "Do you know how much work that is?"
Yes.... well no.... but yes....Kind of? No one is prepared for a number of papers, readings, lesson plans, and hand cramps you get from being an Education Major. However, in the long run, it's worth it. But yes, we understand it is a lot of worth. Thank you for checking, though.
Yes, this may be true however I don't think any teacher in the world sits at the beach all summer long. They are more than likely picking up hours at their second/third/fourth job. Or catching up on some sleep... maybe at the beach.
This one kills me. I challenge you to ask any teacher you have ever known and ask them if they picked this profession for the money. I would be willing to bet you that they will say no. This profession is special. It's not about the money, it's about making a difference in the educational system every single day. Even though rolling around in millions would be nice, it's not what someone who wishes to be a teacher thinks of. Of course, teachers are highly underpaid for the amazing and amount of work they do, but money is the least of their worries.
4. "Ugh... you'll have to work with kids."
It takes a special type of person to work with the youth of the future. Each teacher coming into this world has a little gift they are born with. Similar to the Dog Whisperer, but which children of course. The kids is what we love and wake up for everyday. They are the joy of your day and the light of your eyes. For more then half the year, you have your own family of 20-30 kids.
5. "You're going to be in school for the rest of your life."
Well.... DUH!!!! Not much more to say to that.
Yes it is worth it. Any future teacher out there would agree. Yes, the work is long, the hours aren't great and the pay is even worse. However, knowing everyday that you can make a difference in at least one child's life is worth it. Knowing you can teach someone something knew they didn't know the day before is mind blowing. Having your students come back to you years after they have left to tell you how much they remember about your class will give you chills. All the tears you shed staying up for crazy hours trying to write your fifteenth lesson plan for that class during your undergrad only to find that it ended up in your actual classroom. Having the chance to change lives, especially for the younger generations. That my friend is why being a future teacher is so worth it.
