Career Research and Future Aspirations

"What do you want to be after College"

New college students all over the world can hear the question of "what do you want to be after college" ring in their ears soon after they enter the level of higher education.  In most cases, students come to college trying to fulfill their childhood dreams, find that new inspirational dream job to achieve, or follow in their parents' footsteps into a career that has long been established within the family tree. 

In my case, all of the above is true.  As a young man, I too entered into college wondering what I would make of myself.  I reflected upon my childhood dreams, found more than one inspirational dream job, and then to finally mimicking in my mother's foot steps by entering into the field of education.

Although I followed my mother's foot steps, I did not follow her into the classroom.  Within the seven years I have been studying at Manchester College, my passion for education has taken me down the road less traveled.  In most instances, people will make an assumption that if you are in the field of education, you are most likely a classroom teacher.  To prove this theory incorrect, I must first must explain my unusual journey. 

In the Winter of 2006 I became focused on this very issue, "if not in a classroom then where?".  At this time I was challenged by my professors to find my way.   I was given the opportunity to research and discover career possibilities in a form of a post-graduate plan that would allow me to be active in the field of education, but not as a classroom teacher. 

In the beginning stages of this project, I focused on career possibilities that, (1) held my interest level, (2) correlated to my individual abilities, and (3) utilized in some aspect my non-license elementary education degree.  During this point at Manchester College, it was vital to find employment after graduation.   

Although my initial interest waved at administration, educational psychology, and school social work, my over all persistence and determination has lead me to research guidance counseling, child advocacy, high-school or college admissions, educational consulting, and various organizations that assist individuals with disabilities.  With every new door I open, numerous possibilities arise just around the corner.  This goes to show that being a classroom teacher isn't the only way to be involved in the field of education.

Overall, I know that there is a place for me in the field of education.  As for what I might end up being, still remains a mystery.  Although I am uncertain in what I will become, one belief still remains constant.  My passion resides in the fact that all students deserve every opportunity for a better education!