Why I do this. by Ashley

Why I do this. by Ashley - June 2013 Scholarship Essay

When I applied to graduate schools in early October, I was worried about what would happen if I actually got into a graduate program. I was worried that I would fall behind in my studies or fall behind in my teaching responsibilities. At one point I was ready to quit.
In late October, I was teaching a small reading group. As I was conferencing with one of the students, I noticed that one of the students stopped reading. She instead began to take her pencil and draw inside of the book. When I approached her about it, she told me that she didn’t want to learn how to read. That it was too hard and she liked math better. I told her about how I struggled in reading when I was in the 1st grade. Though I found it hard, I kept trying and practicing. After this conversation, I thought I should take my own advice and apply to graduate school. This led me to starting the St. John’s Graduate program in January of 2013.
My decision to further pursue my education is driven by the motivation that I see in my students each day. Teaching is such a rewarding career not because of what I can achieve. It is the successes I see my students achieve that is the best reward. When I see a student who is behind the rest of the class turn motivation and determination in to a solid measurable gains throughout the school year it makes me want to do the same so I can support my students in an even better way. The tenacity in my students forces me to become a better teacher each day.
In 2009 I was selected to participate in Urban Teaching Fellow program in my school. I was in charge of coaching a first year teacher.  This year, I was selected to be the Grade level lead for the 1st grade. My responsibilities include coaching first year teachers, facilitating grade level meetings, and participating leadership events.
To continue my growth in this area, I am moving to mentoring and coaching new teachers. My goal is to grow as a leader to obtain a leadership position within the school. So that I can help other teachers teach their students effectively. Being at St. John’s has provided me with the necessary opportunities to become an effective leader and teacher. I want to continue my education at St. John’s University. The scholarship that you are providing would help me to continue my stay at St. John’s University and growth as a leader.
I am advancing my knowledge in the field special education. I would like to now step outside of the classroom and into a special education setting, working with students with different types of learning disabilities.   My long-term goal is to be able to use my experience and the opportunity St. John’s Graduate program represents to make education accessible for all students, particularly underprivileged children. I look forward to addressing the nation's urgent need to educate its citizens efficiently and comprehensively. To also support the growth and development of teachers in schools.