My decision to become a teacher

Growing up, and throughout school, I disliked working with children (and children in general) and the thought of becoming a teacher never entered my mind.

I first decided to be a teacher when I returned from Pleasant Valley Christian Camp as a counselor for 80 4-6th graders. Spending time with kids, and seeing how well they responded to me, made me realize that I might actually have a knack for teaching.

When I returned from camp, I immediately browsed the internet for teaching jobs. The first result was an opportunity with AmeriCorps. I applied that day, and was called for an interview the following day. There was one position left. It was mine.

For 11 months, I volunteered as a Paraeducator in the Federal Way public schools for low-income, struggling students. This experience furthered my desire to become a teacher.