It is finally happening. It is really happening. There still holds a bit of mystery as to adjusting to the reality that is it happening but nonetheless it is happening.
Tomorrow, marks the Central Michigan University Teacher Fair and the first major steps at obtaining my goal of becoming an ACTUAL visual art educator!
Over the last few weeks, I spent days searching both art and general teacher related interview questions and have written and re-written my potential responses. I have made note cards containing just the key points to the answers and have rehearsed them multiple times. I researched districts, schools, and communities. My resume and references have been analyzed and critiqued for any errors and clarity; my letters of introduction have been organized in the hopes to be concise, while still highlighting as many of my strengths as possible as a potential candidate. I have even developed multiple drafts and versions of a portfolio, unsure of which would be easiest to carry and display; after all, I am a visual person, my craft is visual, it would make sense to be able to show some of not only my work but work of my students (this is where I really wish I owned an iPad, is it too weird to carry around your laptop?).
The preparation has helped. In a strange way, I feel calm and relaxed; just as I do right before I teach a lesson that I have spent time preparing for. And why not? I was born to do this. I have always been a teacher and a life-long learner. I have always wanted to be in a position to help people achieve; to get them to think beyond the borders; to make them feel more connected with themselves and the world around them; to realize how special they are and how far they could go. My whole life has prepared me for this point and I am ready.
Get ready world; it's happening.
Tomorrow, marks the Central Michigan University Teacher Fair and the first major steps at obtaining my goal of becoming an ACTUAL visual art educator!
Over the last few weeks, I spent days searching both art and general teacher related interview questions and have written and re-written my potential responses. I have made note cards containing just the key points to the answers and have rehearsed them multiple times. I researched districts, schools, and communities. My resume and references have been analyzed and critiqued for any errors and clarity; my letters of introduction have been organized in the hopes to be concise, while still highlighting as many of my strengths as possible as a potential candidate. I have even developed multiple drafts and versions of a portfolio, unsure of which would be easiest to carry and display; after all, I am a visual person, my craft is visual, it would make sense to be able to show some of not only my work but work of my students (this is where I really wish I owned an iPad, is it too weird to carry around your laptop?).
The preparation has helped. In a strange way, I feel calm and relaxed; just as I do right before I teach a lesson that I have spent time preparing for. And why not? I was born to do this. I have always been a teacher and a life-long learner. I have always wanted to be in a position to help people achieve; to get them to think beyond the borders; to make them feel more connected with themselves and the world around them; to realize how special they are and how far they could go. My whole life has prepared me for this point and I am ready.
Get ready world; it's happening.
Side Note: I am still VERY nervous! Wish me luck!