Education Mentor by Catrina

Education Mentor by Catrina - March 2023 Scholarship Essay

I never thought that I would have a career in teaching. I also thought that once I became a teacher, I would have to retire as a teacher. However, my mentor, who is the Vice President of Education at the Museum of Science and Industry has shown me that having a career in teaching will lead to more career options.

As a millennial, I desire to become an entrepreneur, traveler, philanthropist, and a leader that inspires children in nontraditional educational settings. I did not think I could accomplish those goals as a teacher. However, teachers have the qualifications to be in those positions.

Teachers make great entrepreneurs because they work closely with the community, understand the community's demographics, and know the community's needs. Although teaching is considered an underpaid career, most people will think that traveling would be too expensive. However, there are many teaching fellowships that allow teachers to travel and teach around the world while receiving paid stipends. Teaching is a philanthropic job because you are supporting students and families. Also, with a background in teaching, I will be qualified to be a leader in nontraditional educational settings such as cultural institutions, museums, youth development organizations, politics, etc.

My mentor taught me that although there is a teacher shortage because teaching is looked at as an undesirable job, there are way more benefits to becoming a teacher than most people may think. Teachers are scholars and jack of all trades. Instead of choosing a career where it opens only one door of opportunities, becoming a teacher opens many doors of opportunities.

With the peace of mind that I could have the flexibility to chase multiple dreams as an educator, I chose to become a teacher. I am happy with my decision, and I hope to inspire someone else to become a teacher, too. The world will always need teachers.