Should I get out now?
2007-09-12 08:22:24 · 7 answers · asked by Kristin 3 in Education & Reference ➔ Teaching
If your heart isn't into teaching then aren't you just shortchanging your students?
2007-09-12 08:32:20 · answer #1 · answered by Beatle fanatic 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
The best advice I got when I switched careers to teaching was this: The first year or two, you will feel like you are barely treading water. You will take in alot of water, and sometimes you will feel like you are about to go under.
There is so much to learn your first year or two... I would say that, if after a year, you can't look back and say "I made a real difference in the life of at least one or two students, and that makes up for everything else!" then you want to start at least envisioning Plan B.
But in the first year, or even more, realize that you have taken on what is really a very uphill battle! It is little wonder you would question your decision, feel overwhelmed or frustrated.
I am in my fourth year, and now I know this IS the toughest job I'll ever love! But it's certainly not for everyone, and if that's you, it is not a reflection one way or the other.
If you eventually leave teaching, realize that you had the courage and the determination to give the hardest job around (and I've done many, many things in my 25 years of work experience!!!) and should be proud of yourself!
If you stay -- GOOD FOR YOU and for us all!!! Because if you stayed it is because you realized you do love it. It certainly won't be for the glorious riches! ;-)
Good Luck to you!!
2007-09-13 15:27:38 · answer #2 · answered by Susan R 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I became a teacher because I love teaching.
I am well aware of how difficult and stressful it can be at times. I think if I didn't find it so rewarding, I couldn't do it.
Before you stop teaching, think about whether you actually don't like it or if maybe the workload has come as a bit of a shock to the system (I certainly found it a shock). Once you are over the initial stress, you might start to enjoy it more.
If I were you, I think I would give it until the end of the academic year.
Whatever you do, don't make the decision in November/December or February/March. Everyone is really tired and miserable then.
2007-09-12 09:32:57 · answer #3 · answered by Lindsay 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If its only your first year and you aren't excited about it, get out. But your first two years are the roughest, this is when most people quit. I am a second year teacher, I always felt like it was a calling, but I bet 2/3 of my days I feel like I am doing things wrong. But that 1/3 keeps me going, and I know the longer I teach the more good days I will have. Teaching is like most other jobs, experience helps a lot.
2007-09-12 11:46:59 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
My first year was horrible. I am now in my seventh year and I am very happy that I made the decision to become a teacher.
If you look into the research regarding entry level teachers you will note that the first two weeks are sometimes called "reality shock". The first semester doesn't get much better. However, by the end of the first year many entry level teachers are looking forward to the next academic year and beginning to plan out how they will improve their instruction and interactions with students.
See link
2007-09-12 09:46:36 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Teaching is certainly a profession that you either love or hate. If you don't feel it then it is not right for you. It is a very stressful yet rewarding job, but the only way to get through the tough times is by knowing that this is what you want to do and no other profession would make you feel as happy.
2007-09-12 08:53:36 · answer #6 · answered by j c 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Give it three years. If you still arent into it, do something about it.
2007-09-12 09:15:15 · answer #7 · answered by Kimberly 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋