Thursday, September 27, 2007

When The Light Bulb Turns On

I get paid $7/hour to tutor high school kids on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

I remember a few years ago not knowing what I wanted to do with my life. I wanted a career to identify with, so that when someone asked me "So, what do you do?" I could say, "Well, I'm a [insert title here]."

For years, I didn't know what I wanted to do.

Then, about six months ago, my dad told me about this program for adults who have a bachelor's degree and want to get into teaching. I thought "I've always liked working with students--maybe I should try teaching?"

So I am currently in the last class that I need to get into the program. Calculus.

I decided to ask around and see if anyone needed tutors at their school. Hence my current position.

It is one of the most exhausting, fulfilling, frustrating, and wonderful things I have ever done! (besides being married, mind you)

That look on their faces when I explain something and they just...get it. That "OH!" look, when the light bulb turns on and the gears start whirling as they realize that it's not as difficult as they thought it was.

It's a good feeling. Especially when the principal comes to you and says "The students really like having you here to tutor them. Can you come more often?"

It's a VERY good feeling. ESPECIALLY when the principle comes to you and says, "Let me know when you get your license, ok? I think we may have an opening soon."

So in two years, when someone asks me "What do you do?" I'll be able to answer them.

I'll say, "I'm a teacher."

7 comments:

Christy said...

CONGRATS!!!!! Teaching is an amazing profession and while it may not be the highest paid profession (which I think it should be much higher) it is one of the most rewarding professions!!

I taught elementary school for 5 years before my oldest was born. After that I got my school psychology postition which allows me to only work 2 days a week (which I love) but it is still in education and I get to work with kids which is totally fofilling.

Good for you for working with the kids and good luck getting your credential. Im sure you will get snatched up by a district the second they can :)

Christy :)

Karianne said...

Katie, That is amazing! I'm so glad you are over here!

I know the lightbulb feeling for myself, but haven't experienced the facilitating of it in another yet. I can't wait to feel that side as well.

I think that I already mentioned that I loved calc in HS. Didn't do the college level though.

KrayonKel said...

You picked a noble profession! Glad you are doing something that you love!

Anonymous said...

I could have written this post!

I have a four-year-degree and am about to go into a 5th year Master's program for my teaching license. I never thought I would teach but, like you, I want that one niche to fill, that one thing to do so that I can say, "I'm a [insert here]."

How wonderful to meet someone who is doing something so similar!!!

Karen Beth :)

Unknown said...

Thank you all!

When people say something is "rewarding," I never really knew what they meant until I started working with these kids.

Those "Oh, I get it!" moments are priceless!

Karen Beth, you and I should compare notes. :)

Melissa said...

great post! Calculus....Ack! I'm already feeling math anxiety just from reading this. :)

I wish you the best with this! I have no doubt you will be wonderful---I can hear it in your 'voice'. :)

3 Beauties said...

I wish you had been around during my math career. Most notably in college pre calc. Not so good times. Really could have used a lot of light bulbs going on.

Thanks for devoting you energies to the advancement of children. It is not something that many people could or would do. Kudos to you Ms. Katiefu!