They give innumerable hours beyond their teaching day, are constantly spending their own money to enrich their lessons, genuinely rejoice over student successes, and are truly heartsick over student tragedies. I believe teachers are caring, competent professionals who deserve our society s admiration. Most appealing to me about teaching are the opportunities to open children s minds to the wonders around them. Children are so receptive and eager, and their enthusiasm for learning is contagious. Being around children who are excited about life makes every day in the classroom fascinating.
Teaching is the occupation that offers immense potential for enriching the lives of others.
The advice I offer to women considering the profession of teaching is to listen to their hearts when they choose to teach, and from then on pay attention to their minds. Teachers need to be smart, critical thinkers. We need to be willing to select an area of expertise and truly become that expert. We need to be prepared to tackle rigorous material and present ourselves professionally. We must demonstrate competence, integrity, pride, and determination.