Maria Pelletier's Journal Entry #2
Posted by Maria Pelletier at Monday, January 14, 2013 2:21:29 PM MST
Describe a teacher or teachers who had a profound influence on you. These questions will help focus your thinking: What was the nature of this teacher's influence? How did he or she change your thinking about yourself, school, or learning? In what grade did you have your favorite teacher? What was special about that year? Construct a list of attributes the teacher had. What particular qualities made him or her your favorite? How can this memory serve you as you explore the field of education? My high school band teacher inspired and effected me deeply throughout my high school experience. He rekindled my love of music, something that I had thought was lost. Even when I was in his office freaking out about performances or exams, he would reassure me that I could and would succeed and that gave me the confidence to go on. He was a perfect example of a teacher who goes above and beyond the call of duty and who cares for the student as a parent would for a child. In grade eleven, Mr. Traquair gave me the opportunity to solo with the entire band by performing George Gershwin's 'Rhapsody in Blue'. Performing this piece was a dream of mine and I will never be able to thank Mr. T enough for trusting me to perform it. Mr. Traquair was kind, understanding, respectful, passionate and a fantastic listener. The fact that he was always wiling to listen to me, even it I just wanted to talk about my life and what was going on in it, made Mr. T my favorite teacher. As I explore the field of education, I will draw on Mr. Traquair's example and strive to know each and every student on a personal level and to meet their individual learning needs.
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