why do you want to be a preschool teacher essay

25 Reasons Why Being a Preschool Teacher is Rewarding

Reviewed by Jon Konen, District Superintendent

When you choose a path to becoming an early childhood teacher, you are dedicating your professional life to helping our most precious resources grow into responsible, competent learners. Teaching one child, let alone a whole classroom of young learners is no simple task. Being an early childhood education teacher requires a good education from a school that specializes in training teachers.

preschool teacher hugging group of students

You must also have a personal interest and passion for helping young kids, and watching them learn and achieve. This is one of the most heartwarming benefits of being a preschool teacher. On many days, you will spend more time engaging them and teaching them, and influencing their behavior more than anyone – including their parents. That’s why you simply need to acquire the in-depth knowledge and skills that only a preschool education focused degree program can provide.

Of course, you want to check the early childhood education job outlook when you compare programs. But if you can already hear yourself saying “this is why I love being a preschool teacher,” then this is probably the right career path no matter what.

But isn’t early childhood education really hard?

There are a million reasons why being a preschool teacher is rewarding. But every teaching job presents its challenges, no matter what grade level or subject. Teaching early childhood isn’t entirely a test of your patience and will. In fact, for those who truly love working with children, it’s a dream come true. That’s why we did our research and came up with this list of 25 ways early childhood education can be a personally rewarding profession. What you’ll find, is that there are many ways in which this job can feel gratifying. You can appreciate your work by seeing the progress in your students, by learning more about yourself, and by teaching them to appreciate the world around them.

How Do You Want to be Rewarded?

Whether you are a current early childhood educator in need of some inspiration, or a prospective student wondering if this is the right career path, you can enjoy this list and think about the ways you want to feel rewarded. Before you compare all the early childhood education degree programs in your area, make your own list of the ways you want to feel rewarded and appreciated in your teaching career.

1.) You get to experience things with them for the first time. This happens with most grade levels, but not to the extent that it happens in early childhood classrooms. When you are teaching early childhood education, you are often the first witness to so many groundbreaking moments. It will be these times when you really feel rewarded as a teacher. Sure, the long-term rewards are nice, like having a student come back to visit you after several years. But, these are the daily ‘wins’ that will keep you motivated.

2.) Get to help children learn in new ways. The cool thing about being an early childhood education teacher is that you have to apply different methods sometimes to different students, depending on their learning style . Unlike a manufacturing job, which utilizes the exact same processes for production, teaching is an art and a science in some ways. Seeing the effectiveness of different approaches will also help develop your interpersonal skills for communicating with all age groups. Definitely one of the benefits of being a preschool teacher.

3.) The feeling you get when you overcome challenges. It never fails: Just when you’re about to question how much more patience you have, just when you start wanting to give up – your students will have a breakthrough, and you will want to kiss the ground, and do your happy dance. There is nothing better than having a high-five moment with a young student when they make a breakthrough – another one of the awesome reasons why being a preschool teacher is rewarding.

4.) You get better at multi-tasking. As you can imagine, you better stay organized when you’re teaching a class of early childhood students. If you don’t, you could quickly lose control of your curriculum, and classroom behavior. When you practice goal-setting and stick to a schedule, you will notice your organizational skills and ability to multi-task will improve. When you consider the early childhood education job outlook in your area, consider the additional personal benefits you can gain besides long-term job security.

5.) It comes with the responsibility of keeping children safe. There is a somewhat noble feeling that goes along with teaching preschool education. Knowing that you are taking care of the most vulnerable people among us, helping them learn and grow into responsible people – and keeping them safe – is a big responsibility. One that you will definitely feel good about.

6.) They will thank you when they’re grown. When people say this is “why I love being a preschool teacher,” this is one of the many reasons why. But it’s worth the wait. We can’t count how many teachers have shared their stories about students who come back to thank them after several years away. It will amaze you to see how quickly they grow into adults and start making their own way in the world. And when they do, they will remember you, and thank you for setting them up for success.

7.) Can make you a better parent, babysitter, and coolest family member. When you are a natural around children, they can definitely feel it. If you embrace the same passion and love for helping kids learn and enjoy childhood, you can be the coolest aunt or uncle, or family friend a kid could have. You can also help model healthy and fun behavior for other adults who may not have your natural ability to connect with kids. Does this make you want to learn more about the early childhood education career outlook?

8.) You can tap your own inner child. As a tangent of the previous example, being an preschool education teacher gives you the freedom to explore the parts of yourself that thrive off childlike experiences. You can refresh your imagination and creative skills through the activities you plan, and the learning outcomes you aim for with your students.

9.) The health and retirement benefits can add up. Let’s take a brief break from pulling your heartstrings and talk about health and retirement benefits of being a preschool teacher. Although there are many occupations that have higher pay scales than education, the benefits can definitely be a perk. As you know, health insurance is never cheap. And it’s not easy to save for retirement on your own. That’s why being a preschool teacher is rewarding for people who are passionate about this field, and want to have security for retirement and potential health issues.

10.) Can lead to higher positions. Even if you love being an early childhood education teacher, there can come a time when you want to move on to other positions. Maybe you think you can make a bigger impact in curriculum development, or working for a children’s book publisher. Or maybe you want to be principal of an elementary school one day? Why not? The great thing about teaching is that you can always keep moving forward and advancing to new levels. We need stellar educators more than ever. When you speak with schools about the early childhood education job outlook and your goals, be sure to ask about career advancement and degree requirements for your longterm job aspirations.

11.) Makes you more creative. When you are working with young kids every day, you are bound to tap more of your own creative mental abilities than you would in an office full of adults. Children are not inhibited by the knowledge and logic that sometimes dampens our ability to think outside the box, so to speak. When you work with kids, you will witness your own imagination and creativity come alive. If you are a writer, you may find yourself writing children’s books. Or if you are an art teacher , your students will serve as plenty of inspiration.

12.) You become more patient. You think having one or two kids at home requires patience? Try having a full classroom of young students whose minds are working at a rapid pace to understand what’s going on, while getting your attention, while trying to control their impulses. It can be overwhelming if you think too much about it. Again, that’s why early childhood education requires training. The early childhood education career outlook can be attractive, but remember it’s more than just a job. Through experience, you will develop the right level of patience. Just don’t beat yourself up if you feel frustrated – especially when you start teaching. That’s when you need to put yourself in time out, and speak with a peer who can relate to your experience.

13.) They are willing learners. You know what else is cool about teaching preschool education? Children at that age aren’t cynical or defensive about learning new things – which can change with age. When children are young and starting to learn, they are willing participants in the education process with you. They want to learn about the world just as badly as you want to teach them.

14.) They still believe in magic. In many ways, it is your job to dispel some of the wonder and magic children see in the world around them by instilling knowledge and new behaviors into their beings. Yes, you may witness the disappointment in their eyes when one student tells another the truth about Santa Claus. And you may have to be the one who tells them unicorns aren’t real, and neither are genies. But there will be many experiences when their curiosity and wonder will take over, and you will be reminded how special it is to have a child’s imagination. This is one of the most awesome benefits of being a preschool teacher. Instead of thinking of yourself as a spoiler, find ways to help them explore their creativity and leaps of logic in healthy ways. Mixing education and imagination is another reason why being a preschool teacher is rewarding.

15.) Job growth on pace with national average. Being a early childhood education teacher can be rewarding if you make a long-term career of it. Fortunately, job growth in early childhood education is on par with the national average of 7%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Even though you may not think about this fact on a day-to-day level, it can feel rewarding to know you have a good chance at job security as long as you remain passionate and effective in your role as a teacher. So far, the early childhood education job outlook can be promising, with the right training.

16.) You can teach them about serious topics in fun ways. You probably don’t think of money as ‘fun’, right? We know, you didn’t become a preschool education teacher to become rich; and that’s a good thing. Teachers can earn a fine living, but it’s not the most high-paying, glamorous profession. But your students should start learning about the concept of money at a young age. You want to help them become responsible, as well as generous and caring towards others. Developing a healthy attitude about money, and helping kids avoid obsessions with material wealth is important in raising kids to exhibit moral behavior. This article from U.S. News and World Report can show you fun ways to teach children about money – without boring or corrupting them!

17.) You see the results of your work – sometimes instantly. Yet another reason why so many experiences educators say “this is why I love being a preschool teacher.” How many jobs out there show you instant results the moment you perform a task? Very few, quite honestly. Even the biggest businesses that spend millions on data analysis can’t see the results of their marketing efforts as quickly as early childhood educators can see changes in their students. You will lose track of how many ‘ah-ha’ moments you witness as a teacher. In fact, go ahead and start keeping a notebook that you fill with every ah-ha moment you see in a child as they learn. And on those tough days, when you wonder if the efforts you make are really making an impact, you can open that notebook and reassure yourself that you are doing awesome. This can be a nice benefit to the early childhood education career outlook for salary and employment levels in your area.

18.) Every day brings something new. If you think having a child in the early childhood age range brought new experiences every day, just wait until you have a whole classroom full of curious kids! Every day will bring about a new development, a new funny moment for everyone to laugh at, unexpected challenges – and who knows what else! That’s one of the many rewarding aspects of this job: it teaches you to embrace the unexpected parts of life, and accept the things you have no control over.

19.) They are hilarious – and honest. There was an old radio show called “Kids Say the Darndest Things” as part of a program that ran through the late 1940-1960’s. The concept of the show highlighted the funniest things kids said to questions asked by adults. The answers were often hilarious – even if the kids weren’t in on the joke. Even though you should always take your students seriously when they are being honest and vulnerable with you, there will be moments when you can’t believe how hilarious they are. Whether you are doing art projects, writing assignments or playing games, let their sense of humor shine in your classroom. It will make your job more rewarding, and entertaining!

20.) You get to remember what it was like to be a kid. You know what’s super-awesome about being an early childhood education teacher? You get to act like a kid (when appropriate) too! Being a teacher isn’t about separating yourself from the kids, and bringing them to your level. It’s about exploring their minds, finding out how they learn best, and helping them grasp new concepts so they can develop their unique worldview. This means you will have plenty of opportunities to dive into their worlds and let them lead you where their mind goes. This will remind you how carefree childhood was before the adult world, and the challenges that go with it, crept up on you.

21.) You can help shape healthy habits. Since your students will likely eat lunch, and a morning and afternoon snack in your care, why not use this meal time to inform them about the importance of nutrition? As a preschool education teacher, you will not only feel good about instilling them with knowledge that helps form healthy habits, but you can impact their overall health for the rest of their lives. It’s much easier for kids to maintain healthy lifestyles as adults if they start off eating well and exercising at a young age. Be that role model in their lives. Trust us, you’ll feel great about it! This is one of the cool benefits of being a preschool teacher.

22.) You can be their first partner in goal-setting. Probably not the main reason why people say, “here’s why I love being a preschool teacher.” By now, you probably know how important it is to set yearly goals for your students. This will involve setting smaller goals as well with your curriculum. As you break down your daily assignments, weekly/monthly/quarterly goals, think of ways you can include your students in the conversation. That way, they understand the big picture too, and feel like they’re a part of your team. Once of the reasons why being a preschool teacher is rewarding is that you can include your students in your personal goals.

For the visual learners, create a large chart that tracks your progress throughout the year. You can even make it fun, and depict your class in an old wooden ship crossing a large ocean towards an island with treasure. The closer they get to accomplish their goals, the closer the ship gets to the island. You can even attach a real reward, like a pizza party, for the day they achieve their goal. This will help your students understand the importance and power of setting goals and following through. When you consider the salary and early childhood education career outlook, think about these types of details that can enhance your life.

23.) You can help parents understand the beauty of their kids. Sometimes parents get so caught up in their work, financial stress, and making sure the kids have their needs met, that they overlook the little things about their kids that you notice when you are teaching them. Make sure to communicate with parents what their child’s strengths are, academically and relating to their personalities. It is a good feeling when you reassure parents they are doing a good job. And when you need them as a partner in their child’s development, they’ll be ready to stand beside you. This is one of the ways being a preschool teacher is rewarding.

24.) They teach you about yourself. We spend so much time thinking about ways we help kids, how we teach them, and how we impact their lives – what about the things they reveal about us? One rewarding aspect of being an early childhood education teacher is how much they can tell us about ourselves, without even knowing it. When you teach your students, be mindful of how you approach them, react to their excitement, worry, fears, and challenges. Think about how you can improve and self-assess to become a better teacher. The last thing you should ever think as a teacher is “I know everything.” There is the old cliché about the student becoming the teacher for a reason. Sometimes, it’s the children that adults should be learning from. With a little humility and mindfulness, you will be able to appreciate that.

25.) That bittersweet feeling at the end of every school year. We know how exhausting the school year is for all preschool education teachers and administrators. In the thick of the madness, it can seem like an eternity until the end of May/early June arrives. But don’t daydream your life away, counting the days until summer break. Ask any retired teacher if they could have another day or week or month with any of their classes, and they would take it in a heartbeat. The salary potential and early childhood education career outlook can’t tell you these sweet details.

Sure, you deserve a break after working so hard with your students all year, but don’t be surprised if you start feeling nostalgic as soon as the last bus leaves the parking lot on that last day of school. Of course, September always comes back before you know it. Just remember, in the midst of the stressful moments, take a deep breath and remember how rewarding it is when they finally ‘get it’ or tell you how much they appreciate you. When teachers talk about “why I love being a preschool teacher,” you can bet this is one.

When you think about teaching young children, in what ways do imagine feeling rewarded for your hard work?

Please share your thoughts, ideas, and personal experiences with us! You can chat it up with us on social media, or you can leave your comments below.

If you are ready to learn why being a preschool teacher is rewarding, as well as the early childhood education job outlook? We can help connect you with schools that offer programs in education, and will talk to you about the benefits of being a preschool teacher. All you have to do is use our search tools to narrow your options in your state. Good luck on your journey towards a career teaching young children. It is a rewarding career in so many ways. We can’t wait to hear about your success!

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Teacher interview questions answered: Why do you want to be a teacher?

Each of us has some values, ambitions, fears and worries . These things determine to a huge extend our career choice , though we should realize that the ambitions and fears are also determined by something–our upbringing, role models, things we experienced in our childhood. You can talk about all these things when the hiring committee inquires why you want to become a teacher , or when they ask you a similar question, for example “ What attracts you to teaching? “, or “ Why did you choose teaching as a profession? ” But what do they really want to hear from you?

First and foremost, they want to hear some enthusiasm in your voice . They want to feel that, regardless of the reasons why you opted for a teaching career, you are enthusiastic about your future, your teaching mission at their school. And they also want to hear a strong enough reason, something profound , since the strong motivation will help you get over difficult days in the classroom. And such days will undoubtedly come…

Let’s have a look at 7 sample answers to the question. The list contains some standard choices, but also a couple of strange and unconventional answers . Try to pick one that resonates with your values, and clearly explain the reasons why you want to be a teacher, and teach for many years to come.

7 sample answers to “Why do you want to be a teacher?” interview question

I chose teaching as a professions because I love the impact one can have on individual children , especially here at elementary level. Of course it’s a great responsibility , but at the same time I cannot imagine devoting my life to something else, especially since I love being around children –which is likely the second reason why I want to be a teacher. In my view, teaching is more a mission than a job really, especially in the uncertain times we live nowadays. I cannot wait to start working as a teacher.
I want to become a teacher because I believe to have the right skills, abilities, and attitude to become a good teacher. And I enjoy teaching, talking to children, listening to them , trying to understand their emotional world, and be a good role model for them. At the end of the day, we should do a job in which we see some meaningful purpose . I know that I could earn twice as much working in some big corporation analyzing some data or sitting at a computer programming another mobile application, the billionth on the app store…. But I just don’t see a point in such type of work. Teaching is a completely different story.
I just want to share my vast knowledge of history and geography with the students. I’ve been doing research in these field for years, publishing papers, going to conferences. At this stage of my professional career, however, I feel that I should hand the ball to the younger generation . It is time to share my knowledge with them, and perhaps have them better understand certain phenomenons of the modern day . History is the best teacher in this case, if you can look at it without prejudice. The proposition of helping them to see these things is highly motivating to me.
To be honest with you, my ultimate goal is to become a school principal , or even to establish a small private elementary school. But I am still young and inexperienced , and need to learn a lot from seasoned professionals. And I cannot see a better place than your school, which has an excellent reputation and renowned leadership. That’s why I want to work as a teacher here.
My goal to pay back a big favor attracts me to teaching as a profession . When I was young I struggled to find my place in life. I was a sort of an outsider, always attracted to strange ways, spending times with other outcasts. Had my episode with drugs, skipping school, and everything. But one teacher saved me from a path that would eventually lead me to a lie on the street. They showed huge confidence in my abilities , and they treated me as an equal. Certain things they said to me, and their trust, motivated me to change my ways completely. I became an excellent student, managed to quit drugs and lousy lifestyle, and eventually graduated from the university. Nothing of it would have happened, however, had I not met that one teacher… Now it is my time to help other struggling youngsters find their way. Or at least try my best to do so.
To be honest, I am very concerned about the situation in the world. The inequality of people, the widening gap between the rich and poor, the conflicts we have all around. And I do not believe that some Messiah from heaven will come and save us . We people are responsible, and education is the most powerful weapon we have in our hands–if used correctly. I want to help educate children, especially in rural areas. Help them develop the right values, the sense of self-worth, and of course an ability to think critically and question the religious and political leaders . In this way I can play my small role in helping to make the world a better place. Maybe it is just a drop in the ocean. But even the biggest ocean consists of nothing but water drops…
Teaching is a calling I’ve been following from a young age . I am not sure if I can explain it clearly, why teaching, why not social work, or healthcare. But sometimes you just hear this voice in your head, this calling in your soul, and you know that something is the right thing to do , or the right goal to follow. That’s how I have always felt about teaching, that’s the reason why I chose my school, and ultimately the reason why I sit in this interview with you right now.

Conclusion, other tough questions for your teaching job interview

Teaching is a mission, a calling. Sometimes a pleasure, and sometimes a cross you carry on your shoulders . As long as you know why you do it, however, why you are a teacher and not a manager, engineer, or doctor, you will always get over the difficult period, or over some bad words you may hear in the classroom, or even from fellow staff members.

Ensure the hiring committee that you have your reasons, that they are deeply rooted in your heart, and you won’t quit the profession after first few months. And remember that stories are the best interview answers . Narrating a story of a teacher helping you in your young age, doing something that eventually changed the course of your life, is a great idea. If you have such story, share it with your interviewers.

And if you want to simplify your interview preparation , check out my new eBook the Teacher Interview Guide , for brilliant answers to all 40 teacher interview questions (+ more). Thank you!

Other interview questions that may interest you :

What are your strengths and weaknesses as a teacher?
Teacher interview – Tell me about yourself .
Where do you see yourself in five years as a teacher?
Teacher interview – Tell us more about your teaching experience.
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Why i Became a Preschool Teacher

Provide a personal narrative or a series of interviews with preschool teachers explaining their motivations for choosing this profession. Highlight the joys and challenges of early childhood education, the impact on children’s lives, and the personal and professional rewards of teaching young learners. Discuss the skills and qualities essential for being an effective preschool teacher. At PapersOwl, you’ll also come across free essay samples that pertain to Employment.

How it works

For many years, the uncertainty of what age a child should start school has been an ongoing problem. When the time comes, eventually parents need to send their children to school. Who doesn’t like a head start? Why not take advantage of the early opportunity? Parents sending their children to pre-k benefits them in being ahead in their academic skills for kindergarten and later on in their studies. Not only do these children’s studies improve but preschool promotes structure, socialization, and easier transitions.

Although some may be stuck on the idea of keeping them at home until school is mandated, school curriculums are changing and only getting more advanced. In the end, the only ones affected are the children and their future. When entering preschool, starting off strong is key in the first few years of schooling due to the lack of familiarity for a child. Preparation for Kindergarten starts a year before, and what’s a better way to familiarize a child than starting in preschool? Preschool promotes recognition of letters and numbers instead of just memorizing the ABCs and the “pointing-to-count” technique.

The Sydney Morning Herald stated that “ children who attend a high-quality early childhood program in the year before school are up to 40 percent ahead of their peers by the time they reach year three in primary school.” There is nothing wrong with learning at an early age, and keeping them at home isn’t as beneficial. Being ahead is always better than falling behind. Preschool has lifetime effects. Promoting structure in a preschool is crucial. When having structure, students feel secure and have a relief of knowing when things happen in the typical school day. A structured environment aids children by learning order and organization, knowing what is expected of them and when, and developing self-discipline. According to Psychology Today, the source stated statistics that prove going to preschool develops a structure for ongoing years. “At age 28, the adults who received preschool educations years before had significantly higher job prestige, earnings, and socioeconomic status.” What children carry out in a preschool setting is carried out through life. In order for a healthy future, getting children to improve in social skills is necessary. Socialization skills are essential and are a big part in why parents want their children in preschool. Getting them to be social is another key lesson that they carry on during their lives. Once children begin attending school, they aren’t just socializing with their family and the people they are familiar with and see on a daily basis.

As expected, people get offended when I tell someone, who I think is not cut out to be a preschool teacher. They ask me, “Why? Teaching is the easiest job in the world and anyone can do it easily.” And few have even gone to the extent of saying, “If someone can not find any work, they become a preschool teacher, so what makes teaching so special?” Teachers, all over the world, know otherwise. Teaching is not only hard and tiring, it is, in some cases, also thankless and highly unappreciated.

What makes teaching such a noble profession is the fact that a preschool teacher does not only educate but also guides and inspires the ?????? to become an essential pillar or at least a viable element of society. Once bonded, a student becomes an integral part of a teacher’s life, who can never be forgotten. No matter how old you have grown or how far you have gone in your life, your teacher will always remember you. (Unless they are suffering from a memory loss)

Since I was a troubled pupil in my early school years, I was able to connect better with my students during my preschool teaching career. I was able to understand the problems they faced yet could not tell me and helped them accordingly. What made me so sincere towards this profession was the fact that my own school teachers made tremendous efforts to help become me an acceptable individual in society. If it had not been for them, my life would not have been very successful. I drew my motivation from this fact and took it upon myself to go beyond the limits to help my students.

Unlike most other professions, preschool teaching is the closest one to parenthood. A teacher not just sacrifices time but also mental peace and physical health. Always thinking of new ways to teach and new ideas to make lectures interesting but in the end, very few are recognized or appreciated for their efforts. Surprisingly, this does not stop a teacher from working towards the success of the students, because like a parent, a teacher’s efforts are not directed towards rewards or recognition but towards the success of their students. Apart from our loved ones, teachers are the only people who will cherish your success in life.

A preschool teacher is responsible for the future of the next generation. This is not a profession for the weak, irresponsible or unconcerned, who are in it just for the money. This profession will test your limits, put you to your wit’s end and turn you into an exhausted, sleep-deprived but morally satisfied individual. I love this profession and have worked with sheer determination, diligence and persistence because in return I received tremendous love, guidance, and most importantly respect but you should take a moment and ask yourself,

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19 Top Ideas for a “Why I want to be a Teacher” Essay

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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Here are the 19 best reasons you would want to be a teacher that you can include in your essay:

To help children learn more effectively.
To ensure children have positive mentors.
To improve children’s lives.
To help future generations solve the problems of today.
To help the future generations become good citizens.
To inspire future generations to create a more equal world.
To give back to the community I grew up in.
To be a part of helping my community thrive.
To be a part of my community’s decision-making processes.
Because you have the patience for working with children.
Because you have compassion for children.
Because you want to learn from children.
Because you’re enthusiastic about learning.
Because you are a generous person.
Because you’re interested in learning how to teach difficult students.
Because you’re interested in learning how to work with difficult parents.
Because you’re interested in learning diverse strategies for teaching,
Because you’re interested in learning to master classroom management.
Because you’re interested in learning what works and what doesn’t in teaching.

The ‘Why I want to be a teacher’ essay is all about showing you have thought in-depth about what a teacher does and what their role is in society. It’s also about showing you think you’d be a good person to conduct that role.

The 9 Tips are split into five categories. You can scan this whole post or browse through the categories here:

This essay is hard to get right.

Most students write the exact same thing as one another with the same old cliché statements like “because I love kids” (ugh, wrong answer!). If you do this, your teacher will just give you an average grade (or worse).

You need your essay on “why you want to be a teacher” to be different – indeed excellent – so it stands out for your teacher.

I’ll show you how.

Why should you listen to me? Well, I’ve been teaching university students in education departments for 8 years. In that time I’ve marked several thousand essays by people aiming to become teachers. I know what essays get top marks and which ones are average. I also know exactly what mistakes students make that make their essays seem … dull.

So, let me get you started out by introducing 19 points that you should make in your essay on why you want to be a teacher. I’ll break these 19 points down into 5 separate categories. Check them out below.

Read Also: Is Being a Teacher Worth It? (Why I Quit a Good Job)

1. Definitely do not say “because kids are fun”. Do this instead.

The word ‘fun’ is a big red flag for markers. Too many people want to become teachers because they think it would be a fun profession. Or, they might think that they want to help children have fun . No, no, no.

This is an incorrect answer in your essay about why you want to become a teacher.

Yes, teaching is fun a lot of the time. And it is really nice to see students having fun based on activities you’ve set for them.

But society isn’t paying you to have fun, or even to make children have fun. You’re not going to be a child minder, aunt, uncle or clown. You’re going to be a professional who has a bigger social purpose than having fun.

Now, a lot of students say to me “But, students learn more when they’re having fun.” Sure, that might be true – but it’s not a central reason for teaching.

If making learning more fun is genuinely a reason why you decided to become a teacher, then you need to frame it in a way that shows the importance of teaching for the good of students. Here’s three better ways to say ‘because kids are fun’; for each on, we can start with “I want to become a teacher because…”:

I want to help children learn more effectively. You could say something like: …When I was in school, learning was hard and I therefore hated teaching. There were a lot of teachers who seemed uninspired and uninterested in whether their children are learning. I was inspired to become a teacher so I could help children like myself to learn in ways that are engaging, motivating and inspiring.
I want to ensure children have positive mentors. You could say something like: …Many children in the world don’t have positive mentors at home. A teacher is often the one person in a child’s life who is a stable mentor that the child can lean upon. I chose to become a teacher because I believe all children need a positive mentor that instils in them an interest in the world and a belief that they can make something of themselves.
I want to improve children’s lives. You could say something like: …Being a teacher will give me the power to make children’s lives better. Learning opens doors to new opportunities, ways of thinking and paths in life that children wouldn’t have had before me. I am inspired by the idea of helping a child who is sad, uncertain and lacks confidence to see their own potential for creating a fulfilling life for themselves.

All three of those ideas still skirt around the idea that helping children have fun is something you want to see happen, but they also point out that there’s something deeper here than the idea that children should have fun: they should have fun for a reason. That reason could be so they learn more, develop an interest in the world, or see that their lives are full of potential.

Note that in my three examples above, I never used the word ‘fun’: it’s too much of a red flag for your markers.

2. Explain how teaching helps the world! Here’s how.

Have you ever heard someone say that ‘Teaching is a noble profession’? Well, it is. And this is something you really should be talking about in your essay on why you want to become a teacher.

Your teacher will be impressed by your understanding that teaching is a profession that keeps the world turning. Without teachers, where would we be? Probably back in the dark ages where people couldn’t read or write, technology wasn’t advancing very quickly at all, and people mostly lived in ignorance of their world.

So, being a teacher is has a bigger social purpose. As a teacher, you’ll be an important piece of society. You’ll be one of the army of tens – no, hundreds – of thousands of people helping future generations to propel our world towards better days. Below are some ways teaching helps the world. You can start these off with “I want to become a teacher because…”

I want to help future generations solve the problems of today. Being a teacher gives you the opportunity to propel students to greater heights. The children in your classrooms will be the people who solve climate change (oh, goodness, I hope so!), create the technologies to make our lives more comfortable, and get us out of the ecological, economic and political messes we seem to have gotten ourselves into!
I want to help the future generations become good citizens. There’s a concept called the ‘ hidden curriculum ’. This concept points to the fact that children learn more at school than what’s in the tests. They also learn how to get along, manners, democratic values and the importance of sharing. These soft skills are more than just a by-product of education. They’re incredibly important for showing our students how to get along in our society.
I want to inspire future generations to create a more equal world. A lot of what we talk about at school are moral issues: what’s the right and wrong thing to do? How do our actions ensure or hinder equality of races, genders and social classes? As a teacher, you will be instilling in children the idea that the decisions they make will lead to a more or less equal world. And of course, we all want a more equal world for our children.

These points are some higher-order points that will help you teacher see that you’re becoming a teacher for more than ‘fun’. You’re becoming a teacher because you see the noble purpose in teaching. If you do this right, you’ll surely impress your teacher.

3. Discuss your commitment to community. Here’s how.

Teachers are at the center of communities. Parents take their children to school, drop them off, then go to work. They busily get on with their jobs: architect, shop assistant, nurse, builder, and so on… Then, they all come back at the end of the day to collect their children from school.

School is one of the few things that brings all of these different members of a community together. Parents gather around the pick up location to gather their kids, and there they stand around and chat about sports and politics and community issues.

School is at the heart of community.

And you, as a teacher, will be one of the respected members of that community: there to serve all the members of the community by helping to raise their children with the values of the community in which you live.

You can talk about this as a central reason why you want to be a teacher. How about you start off with: “I want to become a teacher because…”

I want to give back to the community I grew up in. You could say …I grew up in a close-knit community where we all looked out for one another. Being a teacher will give me the opportunity to give back to my friends and mentors in the town who need someone to raise their children who they trust will do a great job.
I want to be a part of helping my community thrive. You could talk about how you are from a growing community that needs good quality, respectable people who will educate future members of your community. As a teacher, you will be at the heart of ensuring your local town remains a great place to live.
I want to be a part of my community’s decision-making processes. Teachers hold a certain authority: they know how students learn, and they usually have a very deep understanding of what is best for children in order to ensure they thrive. You can talk about how you want to become a person with deep knowledge about the children in your community so you can help guide you community’s decisions around how to raise their young people.

Note that in this group of ideas, ‘community’ represents the close-knit town in which you live, whereas in point 2, I talked about ‘society’, which was the bigger picture of the future of our nation or world rather than just your town.

4. Discuss the personality traits you think you can bring to the role. Here’s how.

You should show how you have reflected on the requirements of the role of teaching and thought about whether you have the personality traits that are required.

Why? Well, you need to be able to show that you know what being a teacher is all about… and that you think you’d be good at it.

So, let’s dive in to 5 personality traits that teachers have, and how you can show you have those traits:

Patience. Patience is an enormously popular skill for teachers to have. You’ll have kids who just don’t understand concepts one iota, and you’ve got to sit there and work with them until they get it. It’s tedious, let me tell you!
Compassion. Patience and compassion go hand-in-hand. If you don’t feel empathy for the kid who’s struggling super hard at learning, you’ll get pretty mad and just give up. You might also say some mean things to the kid! So, compassion is really necessary if you want to become a good teacher.
Open minded. Teachers always need to be learning new things. We often talk about the importance of learning with students more than directly teaching If you set a student a task, you’ll be sending them out to gather as much information on the topic as possible. They’ll often come back with new knowledge and you will want to praise them for teaching you something new.
Enthusiasm. Let me tell you, when it’s Wednesday afternoon in the middle of a hot school week and everyone’s depressed and flat there’s one person to rally the troops: you! Teachers need to wake up every morning, put their happy face on, and march into the classroom with boundless enthusiasm. It’ll motivate your students and make them feel welcome in the learning environment.
Generosity. You need to be generous with your time and praise. You need to be constantly thinking about the students in your care and doing anything you can to help them learn, instil in them a love of learning, and give them the confidence to try anything. Teachers need to be very generous people.

There’s a ton more traits that make a good teacher that you can talk about. These are just a few. Go forth and learn more, and add them to your essay!

5. Conclude with the things you still need to learn. Here’s how.

One more thing: good teachers are constantly learning. As someone studying to be a teacher, you need to remember that there’s a long way to go before you have all the answers. Heck, I’ve been a teacher for nearly a decade and I’m not even half way towards knowing everything about being a good teacher.

So, conclude your essay by highlighting that you understand what the role of a teacher is in society and the key competencies required of a teacher; but then go further and mention your enthusiasm to learn more about the profession over the coming years.

Here’s 5 things you can mention that you still need to learn:

How to teach difficult students. Some students hate school – mostly because of their terrible experiences in the past. You need to learn to get through to difficult students, and this takes time and patience to learn the art of inspiring the uninspired.
How to work with difficult parents. Oh boy, you’ll have a lot of these. You can highlight this as one of the key things you want to work on in the coming years: again, you’ll need to draw on that skill of patience (as well as the skill of diplomacy ) when it comes time to deal with an angry parent.
Diverse strategies for teaching. There are a lot of different ways to go about teaching. Over the years you’ll pick up on the various strategies and tricks different teachers have to help children learn.
Classroom management. This is one of the hardest things young teachers need to learn. And really, it just takes time. Discuss how this is something you want to focus on, and how you’ll use mentors to really work on this skill.
What works and what doesn’t. Great teachers have this intuitive knowledge about what works and what doesn’t, all based upon their deep experience and trial-and-error. The only way to learn to teach is to do it. Over the coming years, you’ll be learning about this. A lot.

You’ll only need one or two paragraphs on this final point, but it’s a great way to end your essay on why you want to become a teacher. It’ll show your humility and eagerness to take on one of the noblest professions in the world.

If you want to learn to write a top notch conclusion, you might also like my post on the 5 C’s Conclusion method .

Before you finish up your essay, you might want to check out my awesome posts on how to improve your essays, like these ones:

How to write a killer Introduction
My perfect paragraph formula , and
How to edit your essay like a pro .

I promised 19 thoughtful points to make in your essay about why you want to be a teacher. Here they are, all summed up in one final list:

Say you want to help children learn more effectively.
Say you want to ensure children have positive mentors.
Say you want to improve children’s lives.
Say you want to help future generations solve the problems of today.
Say you want to help the future generations become good citizens.
Say you want to inspire future generations to create a more equal world.
Say you want to give back to the community you grew up in.
Say you want to be a part of helping your community thrive.
Say you want to be a part of your community’s decision-making processes.
Say you want to share your patience with your students.
Say you want to share your compassion with your students.
Say you want to learn from your students (be ‘open minded’)
Say you want to share your enthusiasm for learning with your students.
Say you want to share your generosity with your students.
Say you’re interested in learning how to teach difficult students.
Say you’re interested in learning how to work with difficult parents.
Say you’re interested in learning diverse strategies for teaching,
Say you’re interested in learning to master classroom management.
Say you’re interested in learning what works and what doesn’t in teaching.

Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 10 Reasons you’re Perpetually Single
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 20 Montessori Toddler Bedrooms (Design Inspiration)
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 21 Montessori Homeschool Setups
Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 101 Hidden Talents Examples

Why do you want to be a Teacher? 13 Example Answers

Posted by by Emily Adders
February 4, 2023

Why do you want to be a teacher? This is one of the most commonly asked teacher interview questions out there, and it’s one of the trickiest ones to answer as well.

In theory, any aspiring teacher should be able to answer this question with relative ease, but from my experience, this isn’t always the case.

If you find it difficult to explain why you want to be a teacher , here are some key points you should emphasize in your interview:

Your desire to help students succeed.
Your enthusiasm and dedication to teaching.
Your love of working with children.
Your ability to inspire students.
Your willingness to go the extra mile for your students.
Your commitment to helping bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world experience.
Your aspiration to become a role model for students.

Here are 13 example answers you can use as a basis to answer “why do you want to be a teacher?”. As always, try to add your own unique touch to whichever answer you like.

1. “I believe teaching is more than just imparting knowledge; it’s also about instilling values and inspiring enthusiasm for learning. I am devoted to the idea that all students should have access to quality education and I’m determined to help them reach their full potential. ”

2. “I want to be a teacher because I believe in the importance of education for creating a better society. Teaching provides me with an opportunity to shape young minds and inspire the next generation to become productive, successful citizens.”

3. “I’m a teacher because I love working with children and watching them grow. I find it incredibly rewarding to see a student’s face light up when they finally understand a concept or have success in an area where they were struggling.”

4. “I want to be a teacher because I believe that every child deserves to have access to quality education, regardless of their background or economic situation. Teaching provides me with an opportunity to make sure that all students are given the right tools and knowledge to achieve success in life.”

5. “I’ve always had a passion for teaching and I want to share my knowledge with others in order to help them reach their goals. I believe that education is the key to a successful future and I want to do my part in making sure every student has access to quality education.”

Related: 11 qualities of a good teacher.

6. “I am passionate about helping students learn and grow, both academically and personally. As a teacher, I have an opportunity to make an impact on young people during a critical time in their lives by teaching them important life skills and providing guidance that will help shape their future.”

7. “I love being around children and inspiring them to reach for the stars! I believe that a good teacher has the ability to motivate students, bring out new talents, and instil a lifelong passion for learning. This is what motivates me to pursue a career in teaching.”

8. “I believe that education is a right, not a privilege, and I want to do my part in creating equal access to quality education for all students. Being a teacher allows me to become an advocate for those who are underserved and underrepresented in our educational system.”

9. “I have always been interested in working with children and teaching felt like the perfect match for my skills and interests. I am excited by the prospect of helping children reach their full potential and guiding them in their pursuit of a successful future.”

10. “I believe that teachers play an important role in creating a better future through education, and I want to be part of that process. As a teacher, I have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of my students and help ensure that they have access to quality education.”

11. “I am motivated by the idea that teaching provides me with an opportunity to mould young minds and shape our society for the better. Teaching is about more than just imparting knowledge; it’s also about inspiring enthusiasm for learning and instilling values that can last a lifetime. ”

12. “I want to be a teacher because I believe in the power of education to make our world a better place. I am passionate about helping students learn and discover their potential, while also providing them with the encouragement they need to strive for success.”

13. “I have always been passionate about learning, and teaching helps me share this passion with others. I find great joy in being able to help my students understand difficult concepts and grow academically. Working as a teacher is an incredible privilege, and I am excited to work with students of all ages.”

Related: Why should we hire you as a teacher?

Wrapping up

Whether you are passionate about teaching, have always dreamed of being a teacher, or simply believe that it’s the best way for you to make a difference in the world, it’s important to express your motivations clearly and honestly.

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5 Reasons You Should Become a Preschool Teacher

February 13, 2019 | 4 Min Read

Give a child a promising start in their education through your role as a preschool teacher — just one of the many careers in child development available for education professionals. Preschool teachers are responsible for educating and caring for children 5 and younger who are not yet in kindergarten.

Subject areas might include language, motor, and social skill development, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Because young children learn through play and problem solving, preschool teachers use these techniques frequently in their lessons. It is also critical that these education professionals understand child development, both physical and social.

Here are five reasons to pursue this rewarding career path.

1. Early Childhood Education is a Growing Field

The BLS projects occupational growth for educators who specialize in early education. In fact, the BLS estimates an 18 percent growth in employment for preschool teachers through 2030, a rate much faster than the national average for all occupations. Demand for early childhood education teachers is assisted by a continued focus on early childhood education outcomes.

In addition, the BLS reports that job outlook for preschool and childcare center directors is projected to grow 11 percent , which is faster than the national average. The demand for preschools and the professionals who manage them is expected to remain strong.

Preschool teachers can work in a variety of settings. The top employer of preschool teachers is child day care services, which employ 64 percent of preschool teachers according to the BLS. Religious, professional and civic organizations employ 11 percent, while elementary and secondary schools employ another 7 percent, the BLS reports.

2. You Will Support the Personal, Academic and Social Development of Children

Children need certain skills before kindergarten, especially in terms of their academic, social, and emotional development. Kindergarten readiness begins in preschool – sometimes sooner – and is important for a child’s academic success later down the road.

Preschool teachers help support a child’s personal, academic, and social progress during a crucial stage of brain development. Preschool teachers focus on basic competencies in the classroom, including:

Social and emotional development
Physical development
Language and literacy
Mathematical thinking
Scientific thinking
Social studies

Supporting preschool children in these developmental areas will ensure they are prepared and ready for future academic experiences.

3. You Will Be a Role Model to Young Children

Preschool teachers are central role models in a young child’s life. Early childhood educators support children during a pivotal time of academic development and personal growth. Preschool is often a child’s first time away from their parents for an extended period. It can be intimidating for young children; however, as a positive and calm preschool teacher, you can help alleviate some of the stress and anxiety often associated with this milestone.

Preschool is an opportunity for children to regularly engage and socialize with their peers. As a teacher, you facilitate relationship-building exercises that help children bridge social gaps to make new friends and establish social skills.

4. Every Day is Unique

At this age, children learn best when they are having fun. Preschool teachers get to create entertaining, engaging, and creative classrooms that promote learning as well as social, cognitive, and emotional development. In fact, every day brings unexpected learning experiences when you become a preschool teacher.

Learning milestones are broad and educators must look for ways to incorporate multiple subject areas into a single lesson. Creativity is an important skill for preschool teachers. You might act out a storybook one day and create a U.S. map using dried pasta noodles the next. The key is to make sure all activities are educational and help children to progress in their academics, social skills, cognitive skills, and emotional development.

5. You Have a Passion for Early Education

Teachers of all grades are valuable to society. Early childhood teachers work with children at the start of their educational journey and help them to understand and attain some of the most basic and foundational academic, social, cognitive, and emotional concepts. If you have a passion for education and enjoy working with small children, a career as a preschool teacher could be right for you.

How to Become a Preschool Teacher

Earning an undergraduate degree in child development is your first step if you decide to pursue a career as a preschool teacher. A bachelor’s degree will improve your job prospects when searching for careers because it shows employers that you have specialized training in child development, learning theories, and more. CSP Global offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Child Development program designed to help you gain these skills in a flexible environment designed for your success.

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Educator FI

Financial Independence For Educators

How to Answer “Why Do You Want to be a Teacher?”

posted on November 30, 2020

For this month’s career content, I’m focusing on that inevitable question any future-educator will receive, “Why do you want to be a teacher?”

I’m an educator and love it. It’s a great career and a solid financial path despite what most people believe. But that’s not a good reason to become a teacher, and not a great answer in an interview. Let me prepare you to nail this common teacher interview question.

“Why do you want to be a teacher?”

You can be absolutely certain that this question will show up sometime in your journey to become a teacher. It may be part of your application to college, a formal part of the teacher interview, or a seemingly casual conversational question from another educator.

As a school principal , I don’t ask this when hiring a teacher. I do, however, ask it of any student teacher candidates we host. I know our district uses a version of it in applications for our Grow Your Own Program .

Whenever it’s asked, your answer will contribute to the impression other educators have of you.

I’m going to help you form your answer. I’m not going to give you a “hack” because you can’t and shouldn’t fake your way into the profession. It’ll backfire on you.

But, if you really want it, we’ll make sure you’re able to describe why in an impactful way. Even better, clarifying this for yourself will help keep you motivated.

The path that led you to this point, a fulfilling moment with a student or teacher, impact – the key ingredient, be positive.

Focus On Kids

Be Authentic

Don’t ramble, implications of the fallback, example 1 – why do you want to be a teacher, example 2 – why do you want to be a teacher , example 3 – why do you want to be a teacher, why do you want to become a teacher essay, summary – how to answer why do you want to be a teacher, why do i want to be a teacher.

To help you formulate your answer, I suggest you sit down and think through these three things. They’ll enable you to create both a tight impactful answer and form the foundation for a longer response.

Since you’re reading this post, I’ll assume you’ve already decided to be a teacher. You may even be well down the road and preparing for interviews. Fantastic! We need good teachers in the profession.

Sit down and write out how you ended up at this point. Trace your education and career path. Just sketch it all out. List as many different choices and paths as you remember.

Here’s an example of what that may look like:

Planned to be an astronaut – read science books all through elementary school
Parents split – poverty
Became obsessed with making money
Paper route in middle school
Worked at the local convenience store
Studied economics in high school
Worked weekends at a home improvement store
Went to college for economics – looking to make lots of money
Ended up in an office job. Hated it.
* Volunteered in teacher friend’s classroom *
* Felt drive to do something that mattered *
Enrolled in an MAT program

Look for those pivot points, the moments that set you on the path to teaching. Highlight those. (I marked two above with *bold*.)

Your story will be different. Some people knew when they were very young that they wanted to be a teacher. They may have fewer points. That’s great, too!

You can’t make it clear to other people why/when you decided to be a teacher unless YOU are clear. Moments matter, and we’ll talk about that more in the next step.

Moments matter. Both for individual motivation and for stories. Indeed, Chip and Dan Heath wrote a whole book on it: The Power of Moments.

I’ve witnessed dozens of times how a candidate sharing an impactful moment hits the interview team. Many teachers are driven by those personal moments and interactions, so they resonate deeply with educator panels.

Don’t wait until you’re asked to try and think of a moment. Take time now and write out a few moments in education that had an impact on you.

It can be something you experienced as a student with a teacher, or a moment you’ve had in your education path with a student. Both are equally impactful.

Make sure it’s authentic and personal. Scripted obviously fake moments stick out and work against you. But real moments are gold.

Oh, and while I always advise keeping things as positive as possible, it’s okay if a moment is a negative experience that led you to want to do it better.

A few examples:

In 3rd grade, my parents split. As the oldest kid in my family, I suddenly had a lot of responsibility. I walked around like a zombie, but somehow my third grade teacher Ms. Holland noticed and asked me what was going on. She was the first person I told. She said it was probably hard at home, but it was okay to be a kid at school.

In 10th grade, my US History teacher challenged me to be the first person in our school to ever get a 5 on the AP US History exam. I’d been struggling with self-doubt and the matter-of-fact way he assumed I could do it changed everything.

While I was volunteering in my friend’s classroom, she asked me to read with a first-grade student who was struggling. I’d go in a few times each week and we’d read together. For several weeks, the student (I’ll call her Sara) was quiet and sad. Then one day, I came in and she sprinted to me with a book in her hand. “Ms. Jones taught me to read! I’m going to read this book to you now!”

You will not use all of your examples, but your answer to this question (and others) will benefit from having thought through and clarified these examples.

Moments matter. Make sure you have a few clear in your head and ready to go.

Moments matter, but your personal inspiration isn’t the primary reason you’ll be selected to be a teacher. Liking kids isn’t enough (though it matters.) You need to be driven to have an impact on students.

As a principal, more than anything else I listen for this in a response. Even if you nail the first two, if your “why” isn’t firmly embedded in making a difference for students you have missed the mark.

While the first two are personal and require reflection, this one may require deeper thought. Answer these questions for yourself:

What will change because you become a teacher?

Why did you choose the subject / speciality level that you did?

How will you know you’ve made a difference after a year, ten years, or a career?

A moment will hook people. A strong statement of impact will seal the deal.

Putting It All Together Into Why You Want To Become a Teacher

Okay, now that you’ve written out your thoughts you have all you need to prepare your best answer. Before I get to the examples, here are important things to keep in mind when framing your answer:

This is true in all interviews, but remember to frame your answer in positive language. You want the listener/reader to know you believe that things can and should be better.

Focus On Kids

Why it matters to you is important, but not everything. Teaching is a service profession and your answer should be grounded in students and why you will be good for them as a teacher. An incredibly inspiring story that doesn’t mention students will crash and burn.

Don’t make things up and don’t fake emotions. I’ve seen some really awkward attempts at this. It always shows.

Be honest, and stay within your personality. If you’re cheesy – feel free to be cheesy. But if you’re a quiet person, respond authentically and earnestly.

You’re reading this post to make sure you’re prepared. Part of being prepared is forming a tight answer that has impact. Include all the important information, but do it in a way that flows quickly and focuses the listener/reader on your answer, not a thousand extraneous pieces of information.

Never Include These Things In Your Answer

Yes, I believe that teaching is a solid choice for a career. It’s the point of this site. However, that’s not a reason to be a teacher. There are better professions for your finances.

Most importantly, the vast majority of educators view education as a calling. They don’t want to hear you say it’s about the paycheck.

If you entered education as part of a career change (like I did) then frame it as being called to service. Don’t imply that you’re looking to become a teacher because you couldn’t find anything else to do or are looking for an easier route.

Yes, teachers do get summers off. You’ll be surprised to find that your summers, especially the early ones, are busier than you expect. ( Teachers don’t get paid in the summer! )

Summers off aren’t a good reason to choose a profession. Don’t include this in your answer. Just don’t.

“Why Do I Want To Become a Teacher?” Examples

Okay, with those things in mind, let’s look at some example answers and why they work.

“I think I’ve always wanted to be a teacher. I remember as early as 7 years old running a classroom for my younger brother and sister. My decision was affirmed again and again by great teachers I had in middle school and high school. I used to watch and take notes on what worked and didn’t work. During high school, I took career classes and worked on the weekends at a child care center. I’ve never wavered in my desire to teach, and know that I can make the biggest difference at elementary school. I know there are huge disparities in outcomes by race and believe we can change that by eliminating the gap as early as possible.”

This works because it combines the old standby of “I was born to be a teacher” with specific examples of focusing on the craft and skill of teaching in addition to the passion. It closes with a specific desire for impact related to choosing elementary teaching as a focus.

“My parents split when I was young, and my mom worked hard to take care of us. But, we were poor and I hated it. I spent my years in high school and college obsessing over how to become rich. Then I started down the finance career path. It felt hollow and empty. I was making money, but it didn’t really matter. To give something back and do something that mattered, I started volunteering in a friend’s classroom. I still remember the first time one of her first-graders flipped from non-reader to reader. It was magic, and I wanted to learn to be a magician. Every kid we can give the gift of reading to is worth any million dollars I could earn.”

This answer starts with a personal detail that draws the listener in. Then it has a career pivot with a specific student story. Finally, it emphasizes the power of teaching and the drive to make a difference.

“I had some great teachers as a kid. But, as a black boy, I saw how differently some teachers treated us. I’ll never forget in fifth grade when they named the TAG (talent and gifted) students in the grade. Not a single black or brown student was on the list. I knew some of us were just as smart. I watched friends fall away and become disillusioned or drop out. Not me, I became determined to be the kind of teacher that lifts up all students. I know only ⅔ of students of color graduate on time in this district, and I’m ready to be part of changing that.”

This is a real answer I heard a candidate give. As a teacher, it made me immediately want to work with him as a colleague. It starts with a negative story that moves quickly into a drive to make impact. Finally, it closes with a specific piece of data that links the story to the real world and a need for change.

I’ve been asked to complete an essay version of this question three times in my life. First, when applying for graduate school to become a teacher. Second, in an education philosophy course. Finally, in one of my early teacher job applications I had to submit this as an essay.

Each time, my essay got a little better. But, I have to be honest, I don’t think any of those versions would meet my expectations now. I want to make sure yours does.

Use the three building blocks we discussed above. I’d advise starting with the moments to establish your path and desire for becoming a teacher. Moments hook.

Then, use the remaining space in the essay to focus on impact. Research data points and strategies and describe the steps you plan to take. This takes the essay from what some might perceive as “fluff” to inspiration with real world action.

If you look at the previous examples of short-form answers, you can probably see how these could be expanded into a longer essay or statement.

An example outline for such an essay (using example 2) might look like this:

Working hard in school – inspired to action by teachers
Volunteering – “aha moment” with a student
Prison populations predicted by third-grade reading rates
Only x% of students in our community are reading at grade level by third grade
Impact of reading strategies at early grades
Excitement to implement these strategies
Teaching young students to read changes lives and improves the community

Using the simple framework, but expanding the stories and (most importantly) adding research on impact and strategies will produce a strong essay that hooks the reader and presents a clear desire to make a difference. Trust me, you will stand out.

How to answer "Why Do you want to be a teacher?"

Whether it’s an interview question, an application statement, or an essay, you will undoubtedly encounter this question in your journey to become a teacher. Be prepared and increase your chances with the following steps:

Your career path (note the pivot points)
Personal moments / stories with teachers or students
How you will have impact
Be positive
Be authentic
Focus on kids
Keep the statement tight (Don’t ramble)

If you follow these simple steps, you’ll clarify for yourself and others why you want to become a teacher. Your answer will keep you motivated during the challenging times AND stand out in any selection process.

Why I Want to Be a Teacher Essay: Writing Guide [2024]

Some people know which profession to choose from childhood, while others decide much later in life. However, and whenever you come to it, you may have to elaborate on it in your personal statement or cover letter. This is widely known as “Why I Want to Be a Teacher” essay.

The primary reasons to pursue this career are:

Raising new generations and changing the world for the better are your goals.
You have all the qualities and skills to become a teacher.
Duties, responsibilities, and creativity that the profession involves fascinate you.
Growing up, you had a fantastic teacher who became your role model.

If you’re having trouble coming up with arguments, you have come to the right place! Here, at Custom-Writing , we gathered all the essential tips to use in a “being a teacher” essays.

📜 Essay Types
✍️ Writing Guide
📝 Essay Sample
🎓 7 Reasons to Become a Teacher

🛑 7 Reasons Not to Become a Teacher

🖨️ 50 teacher essay topics, 🔗 references, 📜 why i want to be a teacher: essay types.

You may be required to write a “Why I Want to Be a Teacher” essay in many instances. For example, it can assist you when applying for scholarships, training programs, or teaching positions. If you want to tailor your paper to meet specific requirements of an institution or an employer, check out these main types of such essays.

Teacher Personal Statement

A personal statement is an essay in which you reflect on your background, experiences, and goals. It usually contains 500-800 words or around 4,000 characters with spaces. A personal statement is often needed when applying for college or a postgraduate program. It serves as an opportunity for you to explain why you are a good fit for the program and showcase your qualities.

Below is a list of things you should cover in your personal statement. You can also use our personal statement generator to create examples of such a document and see what it may look like.

Introduction

In the introduction, you should seize the reader’s attention by presenting your background and motivations. Here are the key points to include:

Your experience. This can include any work, volunteer, or academic experiences that have influenced your decision to become an educator.
What teaching means to you. Explain why this career is important to you. What does it represent in terms of personal growth? Why do you see it as a meaningful and rewarding career path?
What you want to achieve as a teacher. For example, you may want to have a positive influence on students’ lives, create a good learning environment, or contribute innovative teaching methods.

In the main body, can cover various topics to support your desire to become a teacher. Consider these ideas:

Your love for working with children or teens. Explain how their curiosity and energy motivate you.
Your communication skills. Effectively conveying information to others is paramount for a teacher. Show that it’s something you’re excellent at.
Your ability to create an inclusive classroom. Describe how you can make all students feel supported and motivated to learn.
Your dedication to professional development. Explain how you’re going to advance your teaching skills. For example, you may attend workshops and pursue additional certifications.
How teaching aligns with your personal values. Talk about your interests and strengths. How do these qualities make you well-suited for a career in education?
Your passion for an area of study. Discuss how you want to share your knowledge about the subject with students and how your enthusiasm will help you do it.
Potential challenges. The teaching profession has plenty of them, such as heavy workloads and emotional demands. Acknowledge them and underscore your resilience.

Conclusion

In your essay’s conclusion, restate your passion for teaching or the strongest point from your application and use it to effectively round off your statement. This is your opportunity to tie together the key points you have discussed throughout your writing.

General tips

Want your teacher’s personal statement to be perfect? Make sure to avoid these mistakes:

Don’t use jargon. Avoid using overly technical language or educational terms that may not be familiar to all readers.
Don’t ignore specific requirements or guidance. Make sure to closely review and follow the instructions provided by the institution you are applying to.
Don’t make claims without evidence. When making statements about your skills or achievements, back them up with specific examples and details.

Teacher Job Application Essay

A job application essay prompts you to solve a professional case or answer relevant questions from your employer. This type of writing is a chance to showcase your abilities, qualifications, knowledge, and experiences and prove that you’re absolutely worth hiring.

Here are some sample questions you may be asked to answer in your job application essay for an education position:

How do you plan to create an inclusive learning environment for your students?
In what manner do you apply innovative technology and teaching methods to your lessons?

In some cases, employers don’t have any specific requirements for an essay, and you can decide on the content yourself. To ensure well-crafted and persuasive writing, you can use the following structure:

Intro. Introduce yourself and underscore your passion for teaching. Mention what makes you interested in this particular school to convey your genuine interest.
Body. Elaborate on your talents and experiences. Demonstrate how you can contribute to the school.
Conclusion. In the concluding paragraph, summarize your key qualifications and restate your interest in the position.

Teacher Autobiography

A teacher’s autobiography is a piece of personal writing that details your journey as an educator. Its aim is to provide specifics regarding your background and teaching philosophy. This type of writing is frequently required for graduate school applications and professional development portfolios, or simply as a self-reflection exercise.

To get inspired, check out these excellent teacher autobiography prompts:

Reflect on an unforgettable teaching experience that revolutionized your approach to education. This could be a moment when you saw a difficult student triumph or a challenging situation that forced you to rethink your methodology. You can also describe a lesson you witnessed that inspired you to be a better educator.
Describe a tricky case from your professional career and how you solved it. For instance, write about a conflict with a student or a classroom management issue that affected your teaching. What strategies did you use to overcome the challenge, and what have you learned from it?
Explain how your early experiences inspired you to become a teacher. Share the stories about your teachers or unforgettable lessons from your past that sparked your professional passion. How did they shape your teaching style and goals?

✍️ Why I Want to Be a Teacher Essay: Writing Guide

If you’re looking to craft an exceptional essay on why you want to be a teacher but are unsure where to begin, you’ve come to the right place. Here is a step-by-step guide with valuable tips to help you.

This image shows how to write the "Why I Want to Be a Teacher" essay.

1. Reflect, Research, and Brainstorm

The preparation stage is key to any successful writing. Take enough time to reflect on your personal experiences that have led you to consider a career in teaching. Moreover, conduct in-depth research on an institution for which you are writing an essay. Pay attention to its mission and values, academic programs, teaching philosophy, and campus culture.

Finally, brainstorm your skills, experiences, and specific situations that showcase your passion for teaching and your suitability for the role.

2. Identify Your “Why”

Clearly articulate the main reason why you want to become a teacher. It will be the thesis statement of your essay. A thesis statement should be concise and clear and summarize the main point of writing.

In an essay on “Why I Want to Be a Teacher,” the thesis statement should clearly identify the main motivation for becoming a teacher and set the tone for further exploration of this theme.

Here are some effective thesis statement examples:

I aspire to become a teacher because I believe in the power of education to promote critical thinking and help future generations be better equipped for any challenges they may face.

As a future teacher, I strive to create a supportive classroom environment where all students will be equal and motivated to succeed academically and personally.

Try our free thesis statement generator to make a compelling thesis for your essay.

3. Outline Your Essay

The next step is creating a structured outline that organizes your thoughts logically into a coherent and engaging narrative.

Remember to include the following parts in your essay outline:

Introduction. Start with an exciting hook to grab the reader’s attention. Follow it with a clear thesis statement outlining your primary motivation to become a teacher.
Main body. Describe a moment that sparked your interest in teaching. How did it influence your decision to pursue this career path? Discuss the personal qualities and experiences that make you well-suited for teaching. To make it more impactful, share your vision for the future as a teacher and state what you want to achieve.
Conclusion. Summarize the key points mentioned in the body paragraphs and reiterate your passion for teaching.

4. Write Your First Draft

Now, you can move on to writing your essay according to the outline you have created. Consider these tips to make the process easier and ensure the best result:

Read the instructions carefully to understand the essay requirements.
Focus on yourself and highlight your unique qualities and reasons for choosing a career in teaching.
Demonstrate a genuine interest in teaching. Show the reader your dedication and enthusiasm for becoming a teacher.
Start early to have ample time to revise your writing several times. This way, you will ensure you haven’t missed any important points.

5. Revise and Edit

Editing will allow you to ensure your writing effectively communicates your motivation for pursuing a teaching career. Here are some tips that can help enhance the overall quality of your essay:

Check your text for clarity and coherence to ensure your essay flows smoothly.
Use the active voice to make your writing more engaging and direct.
Get feedback to gain insights on your essay and identify what can be improved.

📝 Why I Want to Be a Teacher: Essay Sample

Check out our example of a “Why I Want to Be a Teacher” essay to discover what drives people toward a career in education.

As a child, I often played “school” with my toys and friends. I also enjoyed explaining difficult concepts to my classmates, especially those related to literature. With time, I developed a deep passion for education and decided to pursue it as a career. I want to be an English teacher because I believe in the power of education to help students reach their full potential.

One reason I want to be a teacher is my strong desire to inspire students. My high school and college teachers were a great inspiration to me. They challenged me to think critically and encouraged me to follow my dreams. They also supported me through both academic and personal struggles. I deeply appreciate their support and want to follow their example.

I am sure I will make an excellent English teacher because of my strong communication skills, empathy, patience, and resilience. When I was helping my peers in study groups, I was happy to see them understand complex literary concepts and improve their writing skills. This experience helped me realize the positive impact of collaborative learning and peer support.

I am sure that my passion for education and love for literature will make me a great addition to the school staff. I am excited about the opportunity to inspire students and help them acquire knowledge.

And if you need a “Why Do You Want to Be a Teacher?” personal statement example, check out the sample below:

🎓 7 Reasons to Become a Teacher You Can Write About

Why do you want to be a teacher? Being one seems manageable if it’s your dream job. At the same time, it’s the hardest profession that wouldn’t fit everyone. Check the following reasons to become a teacher that you can use in your paper.

Also, the following points are entirely appropriate for children. If they have a task like a “When I grow up, I want to become a teacher because…” essay, they will find this section useful.

Raising New Generations

Few things are as rewarding as watching your students grow into confident and knowledgeable individuals. You could say that teachers shape people’s future by educating and equipping them with qualities necessary for success.

While raising new generations is one of teaching’s most rewarding aspects, it also involves plenty of challenges. Some think today’s kids require a whole new set of teaching methods. Do you agree with it? Or maybe you already have a new effective approach you could use. Whatever you believe in, you can write a great essay about it.

Here are a few prompts to guide you:

Elaborate on the problem of raising new generations. Would you like to see a more environmentally conscious generation? Or do you find that kids lack concentration and the will to succeed? Explain why children and teens need guidance.
Provide statistics and real-life examples. This will help you demonstrate the scope of the problems modern children and teens have. Provide the leading causes and solutions for this issue in your “Why I Want to Be a Teacher” essay.
Talk about your reasoning. What led you to realize that today’s children require different teaching methods? Why did you think about it in the first place?

Instead of challenges, you can write about a positive experience of raising a new generation. For example, do you have a younger sibling or a nephew who often asks you to play with them? If so, your essay on “Why I Want to Be a Teacher” might describe how communicating with this child helped you choose a career.

Here are key questions you can answer in your essay:

Does your younger relative enjoy spending time with you?
Have you tried to teach them something or help them with homework?
What other personal experiences make you think you might be a good teacher?

If you’re ready to write about raising new generations, check out the essay sample below to ensure your success:

Being Creative in Teaching

Do you consider yourself a creative person? As a teacher, you will be able to unleash your creativity and make every lesson unique. Using fun activities and creative projects while instructing your students will help you engage them and make learning more enjoyable.

This is another excellent topic for a “Reasons to Become a Teacher” essay. In a paper about creativity in teaching, you can elaborate on why you find this profession a great creative outlet. Here are a few prompts for you:

Talk about the creativity that you’ll bring to the classroom. Use this reasoning to explain why the teaching profession is one of a kind and why it’s perfect for you. Are you planning to use your creative abilities to become an excellent teacher?
Share several ideas on how to educate children using innovative approaches. Kids are naturally compelling storytellers because of their sincerity and imagination. How can it be used during lessons?

Having the Qualities of a Good Teacher

All good teachers share certain traits, such as outstanding communication skills, accountability, patience, and creativity. If you already have these qualities, you will make a great educator! You will also use them in a way that benefits society.

An essay on this topic will help you explain why you want to become a teacher. For example, you can compare your qualities with those required of a good teacher. This way, you’ll show how good you are for the position.

Try answering these questions to make your essay compelling:

Do you believe that a good teacher should be kind? If you do, mention a specific example that proves your empathy and kindness. For example, you might have volunteered at an animal shelter.
Do you agree that a good teacher should be knowledgeable? Prove that it’s another key quality you possess. For example, tell the readers about your good grades in college.

Wondering how to write a good paper on an educator’s qualities? Check out this helpful teacher essay sample written by a student:

Interesting Duties and Responsibilities

Teachers do many fun and rewarding things, such as creating a positive environment and providing guidance to students. If it’s something you enjoy, you should definitely consider becoming a teacher!

These duties and responsibilities can also serve as an excellent topic for an essay. It will allow you to examine teachers’ day-to-day lives and see what teaching practice is really like.

Here are several effective prompts for you to get started:

Describe the duties and responsibilities of a teacher. You can write about anything, be it grading assignments, cooperating and communicating with parents, or continuously learning.
Focus on the aspects of teaching that you find rewarding. Describe the joy a teacher experiences when they see students learning and improving their grades. Or, you can write about the fun aspects of things like mentorship and professional collaboration.

No matter which approach you choose, make sure it reveals your strong sides. And if you want more ideas, check out teacher of the year essay examples that reveal the professions’ most rewarding aspects.

Following the My Best Teacher’s Footsteps

Did you have a fantastic teacher who made you who you are? You may want to follow in their footsteps and make a similar impact on someone. Having a career in education is an excellent opportunity to do just that.

If this is the reason why you want to become a teacher, feel free to choose it as an essay topic.

There are two reasons why it’s an excellent writing idea:

You will show an understanding of what the job of a teacher encompasses.
You will also demonstrate your appreciation for the person who served as a role model and inspired you to pursue this career.

“My best teacher” topic is an excellent opportunity to pay tribute to your tutor or a trainer who has significantly influenced your life. To get more inspiration, check out a model essay in PDF format below:

Having Necessary Skills and Qualifications

Just like personal qualities, skills and qualifications are essential for any good teacher. Qualified educators are well-equipped to teach students the best possible ways and help them excel in all spheres of life. If you’re technology-savvy, great at teamwork, and possess pedagogical skills, you will definitely make a fantastic teacher.

You can also write about such qualifications in a “Why I Want to Be a Teacher” essay. A paper on this topic will emphasize that you have the skills necessary to become an educator.

Here are some of the points you can explore in your essay:

Lack of preferences. It’s a well-known fact that an educator shouldn’t have any pet students. It may seem to be easy, but some ethical issues arise. For example, should straight-A students be given more privileges? If so, wouldn’t it be unprofessional behavior?
Sense of authority. Professional educators manage a class’s environment and establish their presence. They know when it’s time for informal conversation in class and when it’s inappropriate.
Good content knowledge. Excellent teachers always seek additional sources to boost their knowledge and skills. Real professionals can also explain complicated concepts in simple words.
Comprehension of students’ needs. Good educators know how to connect with their students and adjust the planned curriculum according to what’s needed. Is it something you’re capable of?

Naturally, this is only a partial list of skills a professional educator should have. What else can you add to your teaching profession essay?

To get inspired, take a closer look at an essay sample on this topic below:

Changing the World

How many times have you heard that teachers can change the world? It might sound trite, but they really can. Educators significantly impact the new generation’s development and their role in society. The influence of teachers expands to every sphere of our lives, from business to community, from ecology to economics.

Here are the four secrets of how teachers change the world that you can write about:

Sharing. A good educator shares their knowledge with others. They bring their ideas and concepts to conferences, write blogs, and hold school meetings. Everyone benefits from this exchange: an educator gets feedback while their audience learns something new and motivating. Think about it: would teaching methods have ever existed if teachers didn’t share them?
Caring. Educators not only care for their students, but they also tend to actively participate in charity. It can be anything from planting trees to fundraising for cancer. Such activities help students to gain valuable experience in helping others. They may even continue to participate in charities long after graduation.
Networking. Teachers overcome countless challenges daily. Networking and learning from other people’s experiences allow them to see alternative points of view and find new approaches to teaching.
Reflection. Educators regularly analyze what works in their lessons and what doesn’t. Regular observations help them adjust the curriculum or change teaching methods. A critical approach to their work allows educators to optimize their job and make it more impactful.

Now, you have all the arguments to consider in your essay about the teacher’s profession! Choose any topic related to its benefits and start writing.

Teaching is not easy and not a profession you should choose unless ready to face all its challenges. And here’s the “shortlist” of them:

Low salary. Yes. Educators from all over the world don’t get paid enough. On average, teachers’ weekly wages are 19.6% lower than those of other professions. So if you are not ready to live, hardly able to make ends meet, being a school educator is not your number one career choice.
Teachers spend their salaries on students and school staff. Most teachers spend a part of their earnings on purchasing school tools and gear. In 2012-2013, K-12 educators spent 1.6 billion dollars on classroom supplies. That’s not fair. Are you ready to waste your hard-earned money this way? Moreover, you will have to transport all this stuff to class on your own.
Teachers have to deal with all disturbing trends. Des-pa-si-to. Does this song make you roll up your eyes? And what about the whole class with fidget spinners? How about that these things repeat day by day for a couple of months? Think if you can deal with your irritation and anger. If negative, consider another profession.
Teachers don’t have weekends and vacations. You may be wondering why. And here’s the answer: they write lesson plans, check countless essays and projects, etc. Yes, in most cases, you won’t have time for yourself and your hobby. And… even for your family.
Educators are at high risk of public embarrassment. This means you will have to control everything you post on social media, your behavior, and every word you say to anyone. It’s like living under the microscope. And it’s exhausting.
Students always try to escape studying, and some parents blame teachers for that. Have you ever missed an essay submission deadline because of procrastination? Even if the answer is “No,” your students will. And some of their parents will blame you. They can say that you did not adequately explain the lesson material, or you’re too prejudiced to their kids, or… whatever it would be, you’ll be wrong.
Students can be abusive. Even the best teacher faced abuse and bullying in class. Think, will you be able to deal with troubled youth and bad behavior day by day?

As you can see, teaching is a stressful, low-paying, and thankless job. There are many reasons not to become a teacher you can use in your paper and to think about when choosing a career. However, many people still decide to be teachers because it is much more than just a profession. They want this career path as the passion of their lives.

In case you want something more than “why did you decide to become a teacher,” check the topics below. We believe that your teacher will appreciate reading your paper.

A recess for primary school students. Imagine if you were a school principal. Would you sacrifice breaks in favor of additional study time? Explain your point of view.
Homework : yay or nay? Think about how much time students should spend on their homework in elementary school. Should there be any homework at all? Provide your points and evidence and show how they are connected to your teaching philosophy.
Technologies in education : pros and cons. Examine the advantages and disadvantages of using desktops and tablets at school and for homework.
Handwriting in elementary school . Some schools stopped teaching students cursive handwriting. Provide your point of view on whether handwriting is a lost art or an unnecessary relic.
School uniform and dress code. Should students wear a uniform? And what about the teachers?
Standardized tests in school. Are these tests discriminatory? Should they be tied to funding? Elaborate on whether they cause too much anxiety for students.
Second language learning : advantages and disadvantages. How many languages should an average school graduate know? Do pupils need to learn any second language at school?
Armed security in educational institutions. More and more school mass shootings are reported every year. Can armed guards protect students? Do your research on gun control and demonstrate your opinion.
Early start times at school . Explore how such start times impact on students’ perception of the lesson material.
Inclusive education for children with disabilities . Research the techniques that will fit your students with special needs. Show the connection between them and your teaching approach.
Personal philosophy of education and views on teacher’s career.
Discuss how teachers can influence students’ personal life .
Analyze the social and emotional competencies teachers should possess.
Describe the difficulties a teacher may face when working with children.
Personal development plan of a teacher .
Who is responsible for children’s low academic achievement.
Explain why you want to be physical education teacher .
Discuss pros and cons of distance education and traditional degree.
Describe an ideal public school .
Remembering who you were: my teacher .
What educational system would you prefer if you were a teacher?
Analyze the difficulties a teacher may face trying to implement multicultural educational practices.
Compare the efficiency of private and public schools.
Road to becoming a good teacher .
Why constant professional development is crucial for teachers.
Describe an educational style a teacher can use when teaching English as a second language.
Is music useful or harmful for student academic performance?
Methods teachers can use to improve the school for young learners.
Examine the effect a teacher has on student’s personality .
Discuss the specifics of teaching music in middle schools.
Analyze the crucial meaning of effective student-teacher interaction in inclusive education.
Explain the teacher’s role in integration of children with special needs.
Reading problems and ways of helping students with reading disabilities.
Describe the strategies a teacher can use to improve student learning.
What can a teacher do to help students in developing social and emotional skills ?
Examine the value of education in student life.
Why e-learning is an important part of contemporary education.
Teacher’s influence on student’s career choice .
Discuss the role teacher plays in students’ moral development .
What can a teacher do to avoid workplace burnout .
Compare and analyze the role of teachers and parents in students’ math performance.
Career goal of a maths teacher.
Should the government allow armed teachers on campus for students’ safety?
Examine the most important classroom management areas for a new teacher .
Why are laptops and iPads so important for students?
Analyze how book clubs for teachers can stimulate professional development.
Is it right to expel bullies from school ?
Motivation to choose a teacher’s profession .
Explain why teachers’ attitude is important for educational system success.
Why is low teacher retention a real problem and what can be done about that?

Want more tips and advice on resume writing? Check this article on how to make a resume written by our experts!

Good luck with your essay about being a teacher! Share the article with those who may need it.

Learn more on this topic:

Scholarship Essay Examples about Yourself
How to Write a Scholarship Essay about Why You Deserve It
Financial Assistance Essay: Useful Tips to Make It Rock
How to Write an Essay Describing Your Financial Need
Why i Want to be a Pharmacist Essay: Step-by-step Guide
College Application Essay Writing Mistakes to Avoid
How to Write a 250 Words College Personal Statement
10 Reasons Why I Want to Be a Teacher
19 Top Ideas for a “Why I want to be a Teacher” Essay
Reasons for Becoming a Teacher
My Dream to Be a Teacher | Essays
Interview Answer: “Why Did You Decide to Become a Teacher?”
Why Become a Teacher? Educators Share What They Love About Their Work
Why I Want to Become a Teacher
What Is an Autobiography?
How to Write an Autobiography: 8 Steps for Writing Your Autobiography
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How to Write a Perfect Teaching Resume (Examples Included)
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Why Do YOU Want to be a Teacher?
Review Essay: Reflections on Scholarship and Teaching in the Humanities
How To Write A Great Personal Statement For A Teaching Job
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Nice And informative article

Thanks all of this was so helpful, could you send me more on being a teacher to my email [email protected]

Unfortunately, we don’t have more articles on teaching for the time being, but you can check the blog later in case we post something useful for you.

Nice and informative

This article is really very informative and full of great ideas.

I am happy to see new creative writing and wonderful thoughts.

These are super cool guidelines to help me with my essay. Fresh ideas started popping right up. Thnx a whole bunch!

You have really done a good job. More grace to you.

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I taught preschool for 15 years. Here’s what I saw: the good, the bad, and the scary.

by Maggie May Ethridge

why do you want to be a preschool teacher essay

My first job as a preschool teacher was at a local drop-in day care where I live in San Diego, California, that also ran a small preschool class. The school was one large, chaotic room with one smaller room for the “preschool” cordoned off by large, primary-colored plastic blocks. I taught for the first time in that tiny room, surrounded by the screaming, happy kids of the drop-in facility. Surely my kids didn’t learn anything in that din, but I loved them, and they were well cared for.

When my son turned 5 and entered kindergarten, I got a job at a typical preschool. The parents at this preschool were mostly lower middle class. I worked six hours a day, and when my son was out of school for holidays, I was able to bring him with me to work. I worked hard at my job and felt awe, at times fear, at the amount of influence I had over the children’s lives, their day-to-day emotional and mental health.

This preschool was typical of the preschools I taught at over the next 15 years, bad and good. Bad: high ratio of children to adult, very low pay for teachers, terrible teachers not getting fired or replaced. Good: joyful recess time outside, lots of story time and creative play, childhood friendships forming, and, often, friendships between good teachers and warm parents.

My time as a preschool teacher has taught me this: Parents cannot rely on preschools themselves, or the state and local laws that regulate the schools, to ensure their children are being treated well. Even at well-run preschools, I’ve seen teachers behave in subtly persistent or outright cruel and, at times, physically harmful ways. The strongest advocates for children are their parents.

Preschool teachers are hard to recruit and retain — and hard to fire, even if they’re terrible

A teacher at one of the schools where I worked early on was known as Scary Mary. This is what the 4-year-olds called her as they clustered in the corners of the playground. She was short, with a black bob, and she smiled ear to ear at the parents. Like a Disney villain, as soon as she was alone in her classroom with the kids, her voice changed from a high chirp to a bark. She maintained a glossy red manicure, and she’d snap her fingers while yelling at the kids. She often reacted to misbehavior with pointed, cruel remarks. An assistant teacher who worked with Scary Mary seemed completely terrified of her; she barely spoke.

Once, I walked by Scary Mary’s open door and saw her pull a child out of his seat. A blond boy who was prone to nose picking and daydreaming had once again let his lunch sit, uneaten, while he talked and giggled. Scary Mary yanked him out of his seat — hard enough that his knees hit the underside of the table — and wagged her finger in his face. “You are a bad boy!” she said. “Do you want your mom and dad to cry because you don’t eat? You want to be skinny and small like a girl?”

I went on my lunch break and made a complaint with the director. She nodded seriously and assured me she would talk to Mary.

The big benefit of pre-K might not be education

A few weeks later, I saw Scary Mary grab another child by the belt loop. He cried as she leaned over him. All I could see was the small hump of her bent back and the rounded curve of his dimpled elbow sticking out.

I cried in the hallway bathroom. I knew that Scary Mary was damaging the children she taught. I also knew that our director was going to try everything in her power to make Mary work out before she would even consider firing her. Firing an employee makes tongues wag; parents talk to each other, and it can make the school look unstable to have turnover. In addition, finding a reliable teacher with enough early childhood development units to teach a class, one who would work the hours needed and who interviewed even fairly well, was very difficult.

At the next preschool I taught at, I observed the director, over a period of a month, interview candidates for the position of the 2-year-old class. This preschool was full of mostly upper-middle-class families, with both parents working high-stress jobs. Most of the interviews took place during working hours, and often the director would walk the possible teacher through the classes, showing her (usually a woman) the classes, introducing the rest of us teachers. One prospective teacher looked at a baby I was holding and joked that he was an “ugly little thing,” and shared how sad it was that not all babies are cute or lovable. “I don’t really like babies anyway,” she said. “Hopefully I’ll get the 4-year-olds.”

I heard many upsetting comments like this from prospective and working teachers. Many teachers feel that other teachers are confidants: They tell us things that would never get said to the parents or the director. After a month, the director finally hired someone. She eventually fired her, after parents repeatedly complained about the chaos and lack of learning in her class. She spent a lot of time texting while the children did worksheets.

The Census Bureau states that 4.8 million children attend organized preschool or day care yearly. The degree to which child care facilities are regulated, and the quality of the care, varies wildly around the United States. It’s impossible to give an authoritative assumption on whether my experiences over 15 years of teaching preschoolers are average. I do know that many other preschool teachers I have spoken to have shared in many of my observations. Steven Barnett, the director of the National Institute for Early Education Research, said in an interview with the Atlantic , “Access to real quality is pretty darn low.”

Barnett went on to say that the odds of a parent without a high school diploma getting her preschooler into a high-quality program is one in 10.

Preschools have tight budgets, and kids don’t always get the one-on-one attention they need

Preschools don’t make very much money. Preschool teachers make even less. The Bureau of Labor Services notes that preschool teachers make an average of $21,490 a year. Directors of preschools can make a livable wage, but their job is extremely taxing. Every preschool director I knew worked more than 40 hours a week, put in hours a week talking with angry or frustrated parents, filled in for absent teachers, planned the holiday programs, balanced the budget, hired and fired employees when necessary, and very often was called to help manage a particularly unruly child. I myself worked 40 hours a week, and even with my husband’s additional full-time income we barely squeaked by.

Every preschool I taught at worked under a very tight budget. This meant that when extra help was needed, it could rarely be afforded. Every person working for the school was expected to move into whatever role was needed to make the preschool ratios work. Every state has a law about how many children of a certain age can be in the care of one adult. The ratios for preschools in San Diego are one teacher to 12 students — children 30 months and under have ratios of one teacher to six students.

When you have a child who is particularly difficult, whether repeatedly hitting, screaming, refusing to stay seated, or simply crying, homesick, or with separation anxiety, the teacher has to figure out how to work the class around that child. How do you do circle time with 10 2-year-olds as, day after day, one of the children walks around the room sobbing, clutching his blanket, and knocking on the door?

Child development, compassion, and basic sense tell you that a child like this needs one-on-one attention. The child needs an adult who can kindly and patiently work with her until either the phase has passed or a possible problem has been identified, such as ADD, autism, or severe separation anxiety.

In reality, the daily one-on-one care for a struggling child can rarely occur. Even if a teacher starts out the day holding the hand of a child, pulling the child into her lap during circle time, this can’t hold for the entire day. Teachers go on lunch breaks and 10-minute breaks; they have to set up for nap time; they have to set up and clean up art; they have to help other children too; and often, they have to deal with either diaper changes or potty time.

This is why the director is often called in to assist with a child. I worked for five different preschool directors, and each one of them was fairly good to very good at their jobs, but none of them were particularly great with children. Administrators were good with creating scholastic plans that best benefited each age range of children, good at organizing the minutiae of a school — the paperwork, the state laws to follow, the hiring, the schedule management — but exhibited the long-acknowledged difference between being brilliant in comprehension and brilliant in action. It is the fighter pilot in simulation and the fighter pilot thousands of feet in the air in free fall. It is one thing to learn about calmly helping a child having a tantrum and another to sit, the child’s snot and desperation inches from your face, and do it.

Some administrators might be brilliant with their own children, or have been wonderful caregivers in the past, but the addition of the grind of administrative duties and pleasing teachers and parents seems to be the limit, the litmus point where the constant reservoir of patience and connection one needs to be a good preschool teacher runs dry.

One director would handle a relentlessly crying child by sitting her down on a stool and saying sternly, “You are going to stop this nonsense now.” The child would continue to cry (children don’t believe in stopping nonsense — they also don’t believe their emotions are nonsense), and the director would tap away on her computer. One little girl I remember in particular because she was absolutely unmoved by both the director’s stern voice and the hours in the office. She’d cry for so long she’d fall asleep, sitting straight up, mouth open.

Another director would hold the offending child by the hand and announce to anyone she came into contact with that the child was “deciding to be a terrible listener today, making their teacher very unhappy, and so they have to walk around with me instead of playing with toys.” The shame on the child’s face was depressing as hell. I would give an encouraging smile to the child and tell them they could do a better job, and it was okay to be sad but not okay to throw toys, and the director would shoot me an annoyed look for not following script.

Young children don’t always know how to tell their parents something is wrong

What I knew about these and other practices was this: None of this was discussed with the parents, and certainly not in any kind of realistic detail. And none of the children were old enough to think to say, “Mom, Dad, is it okay that I spend two hours a day sitting on a stool and crying?”

Whatever happens to children at this age, I observed time and time again that they accept it. It is not that they like it — they can (and do) scream and cry and mope and mutter — but that they do not have anything else to compare life to. During these years, they have this: home and school. Sometimes a child particularly unhappy at school will make it well known that they don’t want to go to school, because the other option they know is home. They don’t typically recall or express details, such as “I don’t like the way my teacher grabs my arms hard,” or “I don’t like when the teacher says I’m a bad boy.” Some children do, and they are wonderful advocates for themselves. The rest depend on the persistent inquiries and attention of those who love them best.

9 things I wish I'd known before I became a stay-at-home mom

I took my parenting cues from this experience to heart: Anytime during my children’s preschool years that they expressed unhappiness with school, I always dug deep. I asked many questions on walks, during drawing, during cuddle time at bed, and I listened well. I once had to have a “come to Jesus” moment with the director of a preschool for my own child. My son was in the care of an assistant teacher who had taken an instant dislike to him: It happens. However, her bad behavior didn’t “just happen” — she was allowing herself to act on emotion, and my son had been able to express that he was unhappy at school. After a week of talking to him, he was finally able to tell me that this teacher was in the habit of yanking him out of line, hard, and giving him a little shake, to tell him to stop whispering to his friends.

The director listened, and promised that teacher wouldn’t be in charge of my son anymore. She was not in the same room with him again. I did a few unexpected drop-ins here and there over the next month, and all was well.

The unexpected drop-in is probably a preschool parent’s most potent tool for information on what is happening during their child’s day. Some schools don’t allow this; I would not leave my child at those schools.

Unexpected drop-ins are tremendously underused. The observations made during one can change your child’s preschool experience. One foster mother dropped in on her son and found that his teacher, in the room next to mine, had left him standing in the bathroom with no underwear on, alone, as punishment for pooping in his pants. The mother filed a written complaint and pulled him out of the school. I was grateful, because it had been obvious to me that this teacher had taken a great dislike to this little person, but there wasn’t anything concrete to point to until the mom dropped in.

If there are problems that you don’t know about, the drop-in might be the only way to spot them. Dropping in can reveal discipline measures you weren’t aware of, or a fear of your child’s you didn’t know he was carrying (the little toilets!), or her habit of barely eating lunch and then throwing the rest away.

It can be difficult to find time for a drop-in. I struggled with it, as I worked and attended school and my husband worked full time as well. I found a couple of ways around this: I used my rare day off work, when my child still attended preschool, to drop in; I had both my husband and my mother take a turn to unexpectedly drop in for an early pickup; I made acquaintance with other parents in my child’s class and asked them if they could let me know how my son was doing when they picked up their child — a virtual drop-in.

Another construct to connect parents to their children in preschool or day care is the webcam, installed directly into classrooms. Some child care centers offer this device, which has mixed reactions. Some parents love the cameras for the connection it gives them with their child and the feeling of security that comes from knowing there is a “watchful eye” on their child’s classroom situation. However, bathrooms and changing tables are almost always off limits to the camera, as sometimes are outside play areas. In addition, there are privacy and security concerns about the ability of hackers, as well as less devious situations, such as a parent who logs in at a library and leaves before logging out. Plus, these cameras do not include sound, so the context of what a parent is viewing can be lost.

The power of a parent’s unexpected drop-in

All I saw and heard over the 15 years I taught preschool impressed on me deeply that an involved parent is enormously powerful. Some parents fear that being too involved will make the teachers treat their child less kindly out of annoyance, but the opposite is true. The directors and teachers need the parents to be happy. They need the children to stay enrolled at the school.

Parents who make it politely clear that they are listening and watching closely as a caring parent, and then who actually do so, can be guaranteed that all those looking after their child will be — consciously or not — more attentive to the experience of that child.

I was able to care for my son, and then a daughter, and then another daughter, in their little years because I was a preschool teacher. Being a mother made me a better preschool teacher, and being a preschool teacher made me a better mother. My teen daughter knows: I still believe in the power of an unexpected drop-in.

Maggie May Ethridge is the author of Atmospheric Disturbances: Scenes From a Marriage (Shebooks, 2015) Her work appears in Rolling Stone, the Guardian, Guernica, the Week, Cosmopolitan, and more. Her novel, Agitate My Heart , is in edits.

First Person is Vox’s home for compelling, provocative narrative essays. Do you have a story to share? Read our submission guidelines , and pitch us at [email protected] .

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Dream Career — Why I Want to Be a Teacher: A Personal Statement

Why I Want to Be a Teacher: a Personal Statement

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The joy of imparting knowledge, the rewards of witnessing student growth, the opportunity to inspire and empower.

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School for Thought: Why Study Early Childhood Education?

Early childhood education is one of the most important and impactful careers you can pursue. And if you ask any early childhood educator, they’ll likely tell you how much they love what they do.

Right now, you might have a passion for working with children, and a love for all the wonder they carry. Still, you may be wondering if teaching, or early childhood education in general, is the right career path for you. As you consider your future (and your college degree), “why” is always a critical question to ask.

For some, the love of children and knowledge-sharing is reason enough to pursue an early childhood education degree . However, if you are still asking yourself “why,” keep reading. Below Goodwin outlines some of the top reasons to study early childhood education today.

It is a very rewarding field, where you can truly make a difference.

Perhaps the top reason people choose to pursue early childhood education is the personal reward and satisfaction that it brings. Early childhood educators have the very real opportunity to make a difference in young lives, and also influence future generations. They get to ensure that children get off a good start in their lives and in their learning. They get to teach students things that they’ll carry for life. They get to help children explore and succeed, and witness incredible achievements like, “I did it!” in the end.

Children want to learn anything and everything. They want to be able to do things themselves—a big part of growing up. Early childhood educators get to watch these children grow, and help them realize their potential along the way.

As we talked about in a previous article , the younger years are some of the most critical in a child’s life – In fact, the most rapid period of brain development is from birth to age 8. Early childhood educators have the very important job of working with children during this rapid developmental phase. The impression and the impact that early educators have on children during these years is unparalleled.

Early childhood education is a very hands-on and creative career path.

When you walk into an early childhood classroom, whether it’s a Head Start program or a Reggio Emilia preschool setting, you can usually expect to see a room blossoming with creativity and inspiration: there is color, there is art displayed on the walls, there are materials that can help students create and visualize their learning. Not everyone can say they work in a place like this.

And as an early childhood educator, you can expect to be fully involved in the creative happenings throughout the classroom. In fact, you might be the one creating that curriculum as part of your role. On top of that, you might find yourself creating materials for a lesson, making bulletin boards for parents, or planning decorations for the classroom. In the classroom, you might find yourself building blocks, counting jellybeans, playing with nature, and/or painting with children. Early childhood educators have the benefit of working right alongside children in a very stimulating environment, which they’ll often say helps to “bring out their inner child.”

The career outlook is bright for early childhood educators.

There is always – and will always be – a need for education. If you are looking for an in-demand career, with opportunities now and in the future, early childhood education is a very viable option. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, early childhood educators and workers can expect a bright job outlook:

Preschool teachers can expect 10% growth in employment nationwide (faster than the average for all other occupations)
Kindergarten teachers can expect an 8% rise in job opportunities nationwide by 2026
Over 84,000 jobs will become available nationwide for childcare workers
Preschool and childcare center directors can expect employment to grow 11% over the next several years

Job security, and the opportunity for advancement over the years, is a key reason why someone will pursue a certain career path. For early childhood educators, the need, the security, and the room for growth are all there already, and will continue to be there for many years to come.

There are an array of job options within the field.

Not only is the field of early childhood education constantly growing and expanding, it also provides an array of opportunities for those just starting out. When you choose to study early childhood education, that does not mean you are choosing a single career like a preschool or daycare teacher. Rather, the field stretches far beyond that. Within early childhood ed, you can pursue careers such as:

School readiness teacher (or assistant teacher)
Family resource worker
Infant, toddler, or preschool teacher
Paraprofessional
Child specialist with the DCF
Curriculum coordinator for young children
Early childhood director

There are many reasons to become an early childhood educator today, and these four just scratch the surface. If you have a passion for working with children, if teaching is your calling, or if you simply wish to find a secure career that you love, early childhood education might just be the answer. Now you just need to take the steps to get there.

To become an early childhood educator today, you must have a postsecondary degree in a related field. Some careers require a bachelor’s degree in child study or ECE, while others require an associate degree in early childhood education. You can learn more about the career requirements here . In terms of skills, there certain qualities a great childhood educator will have – patience, understanding, humor, good communication, and creativity are just some of the few. Do you have what it takes?

Learn more about studying early childhood education in Connecticut by contacting Goodwin College at 800-889-3282. You may also visit us online to request more information.

Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.

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Why do you want to be a preschool teacher? 7 sample answers
Conclusion and other questions for preschool teachers. Applying for any job (or for any school), you should always know why.Because none job is easy, regardless of how attractive the job description looks like.The "why" will help you face the challenges and overcome the difficulties on your way to become the best preschool teacher you can be. . Inspire yourself with my sample answers, and ...
25 Reasons Why Being a Preschool Teacher is Rewarding
That's why being a preschool teacher is rewarding for people who are passionate about this field, and want to have security for retirement and potential health issues. 10.) Can lead to higher positions. Even if you love being an early childhood education teacher, there can come a time when you want to move on to other positions.
Why I Love Being a Preschool Teacher
Being a preschool teacher is a rewarding and fulfilling profession. It is a role that requires patience, creativity, and a genuine love for working with young children. As a preschool teacher, I have had the privilege of shaping the minds of the next generation, and it is an experience that I cherish deeply.
Why I Chose Early Childhood Education as a Career
The journey towards choosing a career is often a profound exploration of one's passions, values, and aspirations. For me, the path to becoming an early childhood educator was paved with a deep-rooted love for working with young children and a desire to make a positive impact during their formative years. This essay delves into the reasons why I chose early childhood education as a career ...
Why do you want to be a teacher? 7 sample interview answers
I want to become a teacher because I believe to have the right skills, abilities, and attitude to become a good teacher. And I enjoy teaching, talking to children, listening to them, trying to understand their emotional world, and be a good role model for them. At the end of the day, we should do a job in which we see some meaningful purpose.
Why i Became a Preschool Teacher
Promoting structure in a preschool is crucial. When having structure, students feel secure and have a relief of knowing when things happen in the typical school day. A structured environment aids children by learning order and organization, knowing what is expected of them and when, and developing self-discipline.
Why I Chose Early Childhood Education: A Student Interview
A: The field of early childhood education has always been a part of my life. My mother taught K-3 for over 25 years, and my mother-in-law is a children's librarian. I suppose I am a product of the environment I grew up in. Surrounded by the sounds of the schoolyard, of crayons and glue, I am at home. A creative at heart, I thought I could ...
19 Top Ideas for a "Why I want to be a Teacher" Essay
10 Pros and Cons of Being a Teacher. Here are the 19 best reasons you would want to be a teacher that you can include in your essay: To help children learn more effectively. To ensure children have positive mentors. To improve children's lives. To help future generations solve the problems of today.
Why do you want to be a Teacher? 13 Example Answers
12. "I want to be a teacher because I believe in the power of education to make our world a better place. I am passionate about helping students learn and discover their potential, while also providing them with the encouragement they need to strive for success.". 13.
Why Become an Early Childhood Teacher?
Kindergarten and elementary school teachers will see a 3 percent rise in job opportunities. Teachers make a world of difference. As we explained earlier, early childhood years are some of the most crucial for growth. Some of a child's most important cognitive development happens during their preschool years.
5 Reasons You Should Become a Preschool Teacher
4. Every Day is Unique. At this age, children learn best when they are having fun. Preschool teachers get to create entertaining, engaging, and creative classrooms that promote learning as well as social, cognitive, and emotional development. In fact, every day brings unexpected learning experiences when you become a preschool teacher.
I Want To Be A Preschool Teacher Essay
For a while I have been thinking about what I want to go for. I came up with a few different options, however, one of them are early childhood education. Ever since I was a child, I always wanted to teach. So I think that this can be a great opportunity for me and that I will really love this career. For this career as a preschool teacher, I ...
How to Answer "Why Do You Want to be a Teacher?"
Focus on kids. Keep the statement tight (Don't ramble) If you follow these simple steps, you'll clarify for yourself and others why you want to become a teacher. Your answer will keep you motivated during the challenging times AND stand out in any selection process. Filed Under: Career.
500 Words on Why I Want to Be a Teacher
The reasons why I want to be a teacher are very important to me because they would help me mentally and physically. The first reason would be to impact children's lives in the classroom in a good way. Next, having lots of time off during the school year is a good incentive for me to not give up on my forever job.
8 Reasons to Become a Preschool Teacher (With Salary Details)
In addition to choosing art projects for students, preschool teachers can use creativity to arrange and decorate their classrooms. Teachers can also be creative with planning lessons that keep students engaged. Related: Your Guide to Improving Your Creativity at Work. 3. Fulfilling and rewarding work.
Why Become a Teacher Essay
One of the most fulfilling aspects of being a teacher is the ability to impart knowledge and inspire students. Teachers have the unique privilege of shaping young minds and instilling in them a love for learning. By fostering a positive and engaging learning environment, I can ignite students' curiosity and help them discover their passions.
Why I Want to Be a Teacher Essay: Writing Guide [2024]
Hire an Expert. The primary reasons to pursue this career are: Raising new generations and changing the world for the better are your goals. You have all the qualities and skills to become a teacher. Duties, responsibilities, and creativity that the profession involves fascinate you.
I taught preschool for 15 years. Here's what I saw: the good ...
I worked hard at my job and felt awe, at times fear, at the amount of influence I had over the children's lives, their day-to-day emotional and mental health. This preschool was typical of the ...
Why I Want to Be a Teacher: a Personal Statement
The Rewards of Witnessing Student Growth. Another reason why I want to be a teacher is the immense satisfaction that comes from witnessing student growth. Teachers have the unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of their students, not only academically, but also personally and emotionally.
Why Study Early Childhood Education?
When you choose to study early childhood education, that does not mean you are choosing a single career like a preschool or daycare teacher. Rather, the field stretches far beyond that. Within early childhood ed, you can pursue careers such as: School readiness teacher (or assistant teacher) Family resource worker; Infant, toddler, or preschool ...