Give Back to Your Community as a Teacher
September 27th, 2007Look back at your life and point to the people who made the biggest positive difference. Parental figures and strong friendships may come to mind, but the teachers who were there through your high school education likely had a large impact on your career goals, your worldview, and perhaps–as a recent study suggests–your sense of self. In fact, high school students often cite their teachers as the most influential adults in their lives. If you’ve long wanted to make a difference in your community, becoming a teacher at the high school level could be a satisfying career move.
Educators among Important “Natural” Mentors
A recent study by Students Against Destructive Decisions found that teens who identify at least one “natural” mentor in their life–a teacher, parent, or other adult not assigned to them through mentoring programs–had a higher sense of self, and were more likely to take positive risks like taking on volunteer work or joining an athletic team.
