I decided to become a visual arts teacher because it combines the two things I love most: art and teaching. Originally, I was in school for surgical technology. However, it wasn’t really jiving with me because everything seemed so black and white. It was about following instructions rather than guidelines. Being a teacher gives me the chance to express my ideas and to help others grow. I value knowledge above everything else because it’s what makes us human. Sure, you can survive not knowing who Monet is, or how to blend acrylic on canvas, but these small things expand our mind and curiosity. I believe children’s voices matters. Too often it’s what their parents want, or lawmakers, or other people. But being a teacher, you get to show them a different side of themselves.
I remember being a cashier and a coworker complained about having to train new employees. However, I felt the exact opposite because I greatly loved trying to bring people up. To me, when people struggle with learning a new skill, it is an opportunity, not a hindrance. In art, there are many fundamental skills which are challenging. For students to be introduced without being too overwhelmed or frustrated, they need a role-model that will guide them through the fog. I am a firm believer that education should be more student centered. When I was at school, it seemed to be more about what the adults wanted, rather than us being able to explore what we’re curious about. Art is one of the few places in school where self-exploration and differences are encouraged. While as a teacher I likely won’t make a macro impact on the world, but I’ll definitely be able to make a large micro-impact.
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