The Role Of A Teacher

Below is an excerpt from Skyler Thompson’s essay for Elon University's Education Fellows Program Scholarship. Skylar graduated from The Woods Academy in 2020 and is a senior at Walt Whitman High School. 

My middle school years presented many challenges for myself and my family. During this time, my teachers’ roles were more than just educational. They helped me personally and comforted me through my hardships. The purpose of teaching that inspires me the most, based on my experiences, is instilling a love of learning and nurturing students to become responsible citizens.

My middle school teachers were beyond supportive when my world felt uncertain and unstable. They not only taught academic subjects but also provided a sense of comfort and stability. Their classrooms were a safe place to escape my troubles and immerse myself in learning and the community. Growing up in a safe neighborhood and working with kids through middle and high school brought me happiness. I realized education was not merely about acquiring knowledge but exploring new ideas, engaging with curiosity, and finding joy in discovery.

My love for learning became both my solace and inspiration. Teachers, employing methods tailored to my learning disabilities, made education more manageable. They fostered my ability to question, think critically, and explore beyond the curriculum. Joining the Child Development program in high school shifted my perspective on teaching, turning education into an exciting adventure. The joy of seeing preschoolers’ smiles and their eagerness to learn motivated me to pursue a career in education. Having worked as a camp counselor and babysitter, my desire to work with children was clear. However, the Child Development program intensified this passion. I invested more time learning about education, progressing from being an assistant teacher in my junior year to interning in a 3rd-grade classroom at Montgomery County Public Schools my senior year. This journey has solidified my commitment to becoming an educator.

The influence of my instructors extended beyond academic lessons; they taught me life skills and provided emotional support. Working in a classroom with my students and being mentored teaching me daily has made me tremendously grow as a teacher. This holistic approach to education taught me the value of compassion and understanding towards others and myself.

Now, as I aspire to pursue a college education and a career in teaching, my motivation is rooted in these experiences. I aim to be a teacher who inspires a passion for learning in students and provides the emotional support and guidance I once received. I want to create an intellectually stimulating and emotionally nurturing classroom environment where students feel safe, valued, and understood.

My journey underscores the invaluable role that teachers play in life. They can inspire a love of learning and guide students toward becoming responsible and empathetic citizens. As I embark on becoming a teacher, I carry these lessons. I want to offer the same support and inspiration to my future students that my teachers provided me during my formative years.