Postscript
A pivotal point in my college education was creating this capstone electronic portfolio for the English 4950 Senior Seminar course. I started to seriously look beyond graduation and could envision myself teaching my own classroom of students. Ironically, looking forward meant that I had to look backward as I compiled the five exhibits.
Creating Exhibit 1 encompassed updating and polishing my cover letter and resume as I reflected on my education and work experience as an English learner paraprofessional. Then I showed these to a teacher friend for her input, and interviewed her about the teaching profession. This exercise was enlightening because I realized that I have more qualifications than I previously thought. My confidence has sky-rocketed and I now feel prepared for future interviews.
Moreover, Exhibits 2 through 5 involved previously written and current pieces that showcased my analytical and communication skills. In selecting and preparing these exhibits, I realized that these skills help me become a successful teacher, since I am equipped to communicate effectively and “think outside the box.” Moreover, this course included analyzing and discussing scholarly articles about the importance of a liberal arts education, especially in the post-millennium years. This was enlightening because I now understand how my liberal arts education will help me as a future teacher of diverse learners. For example, Ernest Nolan asserts, "Liberal arts education, by embracing concepts of diversity and inclusion, helps people work together despite their differences." Being more receptive to others' perspectives will enhance my teaching effectiveness because I will be better prepared to meet the varying needs of my diverse students.
Overall, this course was instrumental in helping me see that my goal of becoming a teacher is coming to fruition. I am more confident in my abilities and in my future as a teacher. I am thankful because this course forced me to take the time to self-reflect. Now I know that I have what it takes to be a teacher that makes a positive impact in a child’s life.
Creating Exhibit 1 encompassed updating and polishing my cover letter and resume as I reflected on my education and work experience as an English learner paraprofessional. Then I showed these to a teacher friend for her input, and interviewed her about the teaching profession. This exercise was enlightening because I realized that I have more qualifications than I previously thought. My confidence has sky-rocketed and I now feel prepared for future interviews.
Moreover, Exhibits 2 through 5 involved previously written and current pieces that showcased my analytical and communication skills. In selecting and preparing these exhibits, I realized that these skills help me become a successful teacher, since I am equipped to communicate effectively and “think outside the box.” Moreover, this course included analyzing and discussing scholarly articles about the importance of a liberal arts education, especially in the post-millennium years. This was enlightening because I now understand how my liberal arts education will help me as a future teacher of diverse learners. For example, Ernest Nolan asserts, "Liberal arts education, by embracing concepts of diversity and inclusion, helps people work together despite their differences." Being more receptive to others' perspectives will enhance my teaching effectiveness because I will be better prepared to meet the varying needs of my diverse students.
Overall, this course was instrumental in helping me see that my goal of becoming a teacher is coming to fruition. I am more confident in my abilities and in my future as a teacher. I am thankful because this course forced me to take the time to self-reflect. Now I know that I have what it takes to be a teacher that makes a positive impact in a child’s life.