Inspirations from Teaching

"You would make the perfect lawyer!" "Students today aren't quite the same as when you were in school." These were the responses I received from my old high school teachers when I shared with them my interest in teaching. They were all veteran teachers who had a great passion for teaching yet they encountered disrespectful, out-of-control teens on a daily basis. Such responses did scare me from the profession, but at the same time I saw it as a challenge. I have always wanted to work in a setting where I am servicing and educating others, and teaching offers all of that and more.

Contrary to what my high school teachers say, and despite the behavior problems - teaching is quite rewarding. I can remember sitting in their classes and watching them make learning so much fun. These memories last a lifetime, and can be very inspirational. But I guess teachers over the years grow tired and need a break, which opens the door for new teachers like myself.

I have taught Sunday school to 2 and 3 year olds for the past 8 years. On my current job, I am involved with the training of new employees. It seems as if I cannot escape teaching and helping others. I am always being complimented on the way I simplify information making it easy for people to catch on quickly. What's funny is our department has a training coordinator, but all the new employees come to me for training. Training with the new employees is not part of my job duties, but my supervisor has been impressed with the results and has increased my pay and also suggested that I take education courses or software training classes.

I enjoy working with people of all ages, and it gives me a sense of self-worth knowing that I have taught someone something new. I have always believed that if people are willing to learn, teaching is the easy part.

Although my family and high school teachers think I should use my talents in the legal field, I personally would like to give back to the community and help in the education process of tomorrow's leaders.

-- Monica