Teaching

Qualities That I Bring To the Teaching Profession Rebecca Hampton Secondary Education – Theatre From the first day of my freshman year from the time I walked out on my last day of senior year, I enjoyed being a high school student. Making the cheer team the end of my 8th grade year, before even finishing out my middle school career, ensured me an involved, stable first year. Not only did it help that my junior dance team sister drove me to school in her Hyundai Tucson the first day of school, but I was greeted by all of my sister’s friends in the parking lot. I know I truly got lucky with my high school experience, but I am positive it was so great for a couple of reasons. One, I was involved. And two, I was involved in everything. I believe it is completely essential for students to be involved in high school. Sports, clubs, etc. add so much to a high school experience. Simply put, extracurriculars MAKE a high school experience. Students need something they feel they belong to. They need a nitch, a group of friends, something to keep them involved. I see high school as a hit or miss time for students—they can either be inspired, or go downhill. I attended a higher income school in northwest Las Vegas, so, naturally, many students there have had previous training and practice in different sports, activities, and arts. Never have been the greatest singer and having only a little acting experience, I never got myself a main part in a theatre production. However, I always had the opportunity of being thrown in thee “ensemble” with the 60 other students who did not get a main part either. I was always left frustrated with the fact that I felt so insignificant in theatre. But it was not because I didn’t get a main part. Honestly, I was completely content with the fact that I was not the strongest theatrical performer, but I still wanted to feel important to the production. Looking back I wish I could have been involved in a different way. Rather than being crammed on stage with my fellow “ensemble” members, I wish I could have been in charge of costuming or even makeup design. Wanting to be a theatre teacher, I know how to give all my students the opportunity to stay involved. Having multiple opportunities within a production crew—makeup, set, costumes, programs, etc.—gives more and more students places to help. The more opportunities there are for students to join in, the more they will feel needed, important, and, most importantly, a part of something. Working with kids aged from two and a half to eighteen at my current job, I’ve been able to gain much experience and knowledge in dealing with the high school age group. Coaching high school aged all-star cheerleaders four days a week has really proven to me that I can connect with kids. I find that, quite often, the girls come and talk to me before the other coaches about any problems or issues they’re having. Being only twenty years old and no taller than four feet and eleven inches, I struggle feeling in power around high school students. However, I find that I still have a great amount of control over the students—much more than I would expect, at least. I try to always make sure that even I am only a few years older, there is a boundary that I keep between friend and coach. I find it very important to not become “buddies” with students. And although that may be hard for young teachers, this is essential in keeping strong teacher-student relationships in the classroom. While it is important to be kind and friendly with students, we must remember that we are there as their educator, not as their peer. For an example, one of the girls I coach at my job often tries to persuade me into making things better for her. And I am sure she does this because of my age, appearance, and the personality I have presented the team girls. I find that this particular girl confides in me when she is unhappy about her placement in a routine or stunt. I am not sure what it is, but it seems that she views me as a friend, rather than a coach. I can tell she is trying to convince me to have her spot moved, but I always make sure that I explain that what it is, is what it is. As a teacher, I will provide my students with the tools and materials they need to succeed in their high school and future career. Not only will I give them numerous involvement activities, but, as a drama teacher, I will teach my students to have the confidence and great communication skills. I am positive that my personal and work experiences have given me a strong understanding of my strengths as an educator. Working as a cheer coach, I have been able to see what works and what doesn’t when dealing with high school students. And coming from a great high school career, I know how beneficial it is to stay involved in school. It is the best way to make friends, experience things, and become who you are meant to be. As a theatre teacher, I will give several opportunities to my students to be involved. Not only will I have acting opportunities, but all jobs that go into productions will be available for my students.