Chapter 14: Succeeding in Your Teacher Education Program- and Beyond

I have many concerns when it comes to thinking about my future as an educator. Surprisingly, one of these concerns does not include salary. I have always known that educators do not receive a high paying salary, therefore, I resorted earlier on that I would hold a second job to equalize my income.

One of my biggest fears in becoming a teacher is being prepared for all I need to know and incorporate in my classroom. How do I go about making my resume? What programs and activities should I participate in that would enable me to gain a more extensive knowledge in my teaching career? How do I go about organizing my educational portfolio, preparing my lesson plans, coordinating my schedule? How do I become involved in tutoring and in subbing?

Other fears of mine include concerns of my adequacy as a teacher. I am afraid of not having enough knowledge in the subject I am teaching. I am afraid of not being able to control the class, or being able to know how to teach a particular lesson. Also, what if I am not able to engage my students and motivate them to participate in class? What if I am not able to increase my students' learning? I am so afraid that my effectiveness as a teacher will not have a significant impact on my students, as well as my fellow coworkers and community.

The area of concern that was not stated above is the "Unconcerned" model. I have no fears of family problems, getting along with a roommate, or an upcoming event. I have no fears similar to these such as money problems, etc... My main concerns were on my ability to succeed, the management of teaching, and what the students are learning. Another main concern that was noticeable was the fear of not being prepared. I found three models of the Stages of Concerns within my statement: Self, Task, and Impact.

I suppose, though, that these fears are common within beginning a career in education. My hope is that as my career at UMF continues, that these fears will disappear and be replaced with a fulfilled and prepared sense of self.