This information is provided in response to course requirements.
My name is Kerri Beauchesne, and I'm a graduate student at the University of Texas at Arlington. I am currently working on an M.Ed.T. (Master of Education - Teaching) with secondary teacher certification. I plan to teach high school English.
In 2001, after earning a B.A. in English from UTA, I entered the legal field as a paralegal. For a time I considered going to law school, but as much as I have enjoyed this career, I realized that teaching is my true love.
My inspiration to teach stems from my experience as a tutor at the UTA Writing Center. I loved helping students get excited about writing. That's where I learned that motivation is half the battle in teaching.
My background as a paralegal will be valuable to my students because I have used my "English" skills in the real world. I know how important grammar, punctuation, tone, analysis, close reading, and so forth can be in a practical sense.
My experience as a mother has also helped prepare me for teaching. My 6-year-old son has definitely taught me patience! I have learned never to assume he has understood me when I tell him something new - I must ask questions to make sure we're on the same page. He has also taught me that just because he's a kid doesn't mean he isn't capable of advanced thinking. I've learned to have high expectations of his abilities - to monitor for comprehension, but not to condescend.
I know that being a teacher isn't easy. It's tough to stay up with what kids are interested in and find new ways to engage them in class. It's what I want to do, though. Nothing else makes me feel so alive and worthwhile as helping others to learn. |
