Next semester marks an exciting and pivotal chapter in my journey to becoming a teacher. I’ll be student teaching at Elgin High School, focusing on two distinct yet equally fascinating subjects: U.S. History and International Baccalaureate (IB) Social and Cultural Anthropology. As I prepare to step into these roles, I feel a mixture of excitement, gratitude, and a strong sense of purpose.
Teaching U.S. History will give me the chance to delve into a subject that helps students connect past events to the world they live in today. History is more than dates and names; it’s a tool for critical thinking and understanding how the threads of time have shaped our society. I look forward to engaging students in dynamic discussions, connecting historical events to current issues, and sparking their curiosity about the complexities of the past.
The opportunity to teach IB Social and Cultural Anthropology, however, feels particularly special. Anthropology has been a cornerstone of my academic and personal life, and this will likely be the only chance I have to bring my passion for the subject into a high school classroom. Anthropology encourages students to explore human diversity, question cultural assumptions, and see the world through new lenses. I am thrilled to share this perspective with the next generation, helping them navigate our increasingly interconnected and complex global society.
Looking beyond the upcoming semester, I am cautiously optimistic about securing a teaching position for the 2025-26 school year. While I feel confident in my skills and passion for teaching, I can’t help but wonder if having two master’s degrees—an MA in anthropology and an MAT in secondary education—might make me seem overqualified in some districts. It’s a concern I’ve reflected on as I consider how to best position myself as a candidate who is eager to make a meaningful impact in the classroom.
For now, I’m focused on making the most of this upcoming semester. I know it will be a period of growth, challenges, and incredible opportunities. With the support of my mentors and the vibrant community at Elgin High School, I’m ready to embrace every moment and step confidently into this next phase of my teaching career—hopeful that it will lead to a fulfilling role in education for years to come.