Knowledge is powerful

Knowledge is powerful. I started to value knowledge only after high school. Ever since everything from literature to science, and everything in between, fascinates me. The positive growth that I’ve expirienced in the last few years has been a direct result of increased knowledge. However, I’ve never been able to fully grasp how to property impart the knowledge I’ve attained onto others.

Pedagogy still baffles me. Most people who are good at the practice appear to be well composed, knowledgable, patient, and caring. I’m not saying that I don’t posses any of these virtues but I honestly haven’t been able to symultaneously use those skills to transmit knowledge.

This year I’ve been awarded an incredible opportunity to teach secondary mathematics in Denver, Colorado. The school district is home to many newly arrived immigrants. The stories remind me a lot of what my family and I lived through. I would be lying if I didn’t admit that I took the position because I felt emotionally attached to circumstances that most of these kids are probably going through. And it’s because of this attachment that I am worried about failing; not for myself but for the families that will depend on me.

I don’t think it’s possible to overestimate the importance that a teacher can have on the lives of its students. A teacher’s footprint can extend to the entire life of the student. Out in the world are the results of effective teaching; whether it was a result of effective teaching in or out of school is up for debate but what isn’t arguable is that someone in their lives succesfully opened their mind to the attainable possibilities of a curious mind.

I intend to be nothing less of a guide to brighter future. This may seem idealistic — some may say unrealistic — but in no way will that stop me from trying. I’m hopeful that I will be able to maintain my vigor and determination all throughout the next two years. If i ever doubt myself, I will use this article to remind me who I need to be.