Becoming a Teacher – A Brighter Future Ahead
The decision to enter a career in teaching is not something to be taken lightly. There are
hundreds and hundreds of other careers to choose from . So I ask myself this question and
ponder the reasons, why I want to become a teacher. Upon asking another teacher this
question I got a quick response of June, July, and August. There has to be more to it than
just summer vacation, right? Some of the other reasons people might give are such things
like: extrinsic and intrinsic rewards; they feel a calling to teach; a chance to positively
impact the community; having a commitment to students; and being a good role model.
But just what does all this mean to me and my pursuit to be an educator? Ultimately, I
believe it will lead to a brighter future for me, and for my family.
Let us take a little deeper look at some of the rewards of teaching. Everyone wants to be
recognized for things they do in life, whether they are willing to admit it or not. I would
love one day to have my name called out at an assembly to receive a certificate, plaque, or
maybe even a banner, for being awarded Teacher of the Year. This would be a really great
way to mark my accomplishments and distinguish myself among my colleagues. Teaching
is not all about fame and recognition though. I think what will drive me more than
anything will be the intrinsic rewards. Knowing that I am doing a job that makes a
