Teaching middle school students may seem like one of the most intimidating careers out there, but I think it will ultimately be overwhelmingly rewarding. Make sure there is enough time during the week to meet observation requirements and do not be afraid to actively get involved. Take advantage of the shadow study days as well because this gives major insight into the lives of middle school students.
Hometown:Carrollton, Ohio
Major:Middle Childhood Education
Katy Borland '11
Why did you choose to pursue your degree?
I have known for a while that I wanted to teach but did not know exactly what area I wanted to concentrate in. I came into Mount Union to pursue a music education degree, but realized that I have always wanted to teach mathematics. Middle school for me held some of the best and worst times of my life, and I would love to teach kids who are making that transition from total dependence to taking responsibility for themselves and their lives. I also want to encourage kids to appreciate the importance of mathematics in our world.
What types of jobs are available for students who share your major?
Students involved in the middle childhood education program can expect to be employed as a substitute or full-time teacher in either of their areas of concentration. The licensure for middle childhood covers fourth to ninth grade.
How will you use your degree upon graduation?
I plan on teaching out-of-state until I earn my graduate degree. I am hoping to teach mathematics in a middle school setting.
What activities are you involved in?
I am involved in the fall productions put on by the Department of Theatre. I am also involved in the Mount Union marching and concert bands and wind ensemble, jazz band, horn choir, Mount Union choir and woodwind quintet. I am a member of Alpha Lambda Delta, Kappa Kappa Psi, MUC Players and OCMEA.
What elements should a person possess in order to succeed in your major?
I believe anyone pursuing a career in education needs plenty of willpower and determination. I remember my elementary, middle and high school days and observing teachers go through the struggles of dealing with their own lives while caring for their classes and individual students. Being a teacher also requires a certain amount of humility and the realization that no one is perfect but that the expectations we set for our students should offer enough of a challenge to encourage hard work.
