One of my assignments for my Education 100 class was to write an essay about why I wanted to teach.   Writing this essay really helped me focus on what it meant to have a career in Education, what characteristics a good teacher should have, and what benefits there are to being a teacher. 
Spending time in real classrooms during our required observation time really helped to reinforce my decision to be an Education major.  Observing the teachers and students gave me an opportunity to reflect on what I could bring to a classroom.  If I were to add to my essay now, I would have to say that children inspire me, but my new goal is to inspire chldren.

Inspired by Children

Children are never boring.  Their freshness, curiosity, and openness delight me.  Watching someone grow and learn is an amazing process. 

I have a beautiful four year old daughter, and she has been my biggest inspiration for my choice as an Education major.  Through her, I've learned the magic of teaching.  Watching her play with others has given me a great respect for the diversity of children.  As a parent, I know the value and commitment that each child deserves and that other parents expect.

Being a teacher will allow me to re-experience all the wonderful childhood times that I treasure.  I have fond memories of several of my grade-school teachers.  One such teacher was my 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Chandler.  She often read to us from the series "Little House on the Prarie". 
I remember being mesmerized by the words and look forward to sharing similar stories to young minds.  I loved learning as a child and I truly enjoy the learning-teaching process.

It would be hard to choose a particular subject to teach.  This is what I'll love most about teaching younger students -- teaching various subjects.  I enjoy all disciplines such as math, science, and especially the arts.  Every child will have a unique way of viewing each discipline.  The discoveries will always be new and exciting. 

Along with my desire to work with children and my love of the teaching-learning process, there will also be practical benefits to becoming a teacher.  The most important practical advantage for me will be that I can share my knowledge and experience with my daughter.  By sharing this with her,  I hope to be a positive influence to her throughout her formative years.  Another advantage to teaching is that I will be blessed with an endless supply of wonderful children, long after my daughter has left the primary or secondary, age group.

Finally, as a returning student, I feel I have learned the importance of discipline and commitment and can place great value on the profession.  I possess many of the characteristics that indicate I will probably have satisfaction in a teaching career.  I have a love of learning, success as a student, and positive attitude toward others.  I am a patient and compassionate person and believe this will allow me to put my students' academic needs and welfare first.