This is a question that I am often asked, especially because there are so many other career options for chemists. In this article, I'd like to share with you why I have chosen this wonderful, but often overlooked, profession and answer a few other questions that I have been asked about teaching science at the high school level. My primary reason for teaching is that I enjoy helping people learn and understand. I gain a great deal of satisfaction knowing that students have learned a concept I taught them. Quick feedback on my progress as a teacher is available as well, making me feel that I am a vital component in other people's lives.
Teaching is a people-centered occupation.
Although I like science, I was not interested in pursing a research career. Teaching science has been a great alternative. I have been fortunate because this field that matches my interests currently has a demand for scientists at all degree levels. With the fast-pace and interdisciplinary nature of science, these are requirements for virtually any position, academic or not. In particular, high school teachers need to really enjoy working with students.