Considering pursuing a degree in teaching? Perhaps you’re already in college, and contemplating switching your major? Whatever your case may be, Kelley LaRosa has the answers to all your questions.
LaRosa, 20, of West Hempstead, NY always knew she wanted to be an English teacher. In pursuit of her dream, she selected SUNY Cortland for her education. Now, with only one semester left of her undergraduate studies, she’s reflecting on the process- the ups and downs of learning how to be that which taught her.
Generally speaking, being an education major is no small task. In fact, it’s more of a feat. Over the course of the last decade, the number of students graduating with degrees in education has declined by nearly 20%, according to the Pew Research Center.
With a national teacher shortage looming over the U.S. in the wake of Covid-19, majoring in education has become an attractive prospect for most, considering the wide-open job market.
But is it for you? Is studying to be a teacher as difficult as it’s perceived to be? LaRosa has the inside scoop just for you.
The conversation has been edited for clarity and brevity.
Joshua Dellett: What subject are you studying to teach, and why did you select that one?
Kelley LaRosa: I’m studying adolescent education in English, and I chose it because I have a passion for English and books.
JD: Overall, do you find the program enjoyable, or is it too arduous?
KL: I think it’s very enjoyable, because I have a community to support and help me along the way.
JD: What’s the most difficult part of the program?
KL: I think the most difficult part of the program is that we essentially learn how to be a teacher in two semesters.
(LaRosa is referring to observations and student teaching, which take place in a student’s final two semesters in the program.)
JD: What sort of formal certifications do you need in order to graduate from the program?
KL: You need 100 observation hours, and to pass student teaching.
JD: Without attending graduate school prior to entering the workforce, what are your job prospects?
KL: Well, there is a national teacher shortage so that’ll likely work in my favor. But obviously I’ll get beat out of any job by someone with a master’s degree.
JD: Do you think it would be worth it for an education major to obtain a master’s degree prior to entering the workforce?
KL: I think yes, and no. Some districts will hire someone that doesn’t have a master’s degree over someone who does have a master’s degree because they can pay you less. Generally, if you apply to work in a good school district you’re more likely to get hired and you’ll definitely get paid more.
JD: Do you feel that studying such a rigorous curriculum has detracted from your college experience? Is the work-life Balance reasonable?
KL: I think it’s reasonable. I think it’s a lot, and it can be overwhelming and stressful at times, but I don’t think it takes away from my college experience.
JD: Do you feel that the program has too much power over your life, considering the strict standards for personal conduct?
KL: I think being a teacher in general is a little life altering. You always have to consider the fact that you’re going to see students in your daily life, and they don’t see you as human beings that eat, sleep, have families, and see friends like they do- they see you as their teacher. I don’t think it’s the program that has power over my life, I think it’s the profession in general.
JD: What’s the best part about being a teaching major?
KL: At Cortland, definitely the community you get. I’ve made a bunch of friends in it, partly because it’s a very personal experience for everyone.
JD: What advice would you give someone contemplating pursuing a teaching degree?
KL: Know what you’re getting yourself into. Understand that this isn’t just a job, there has to be passion behind it. You have to want to change peoples’ lives essentially, not just do it because it’s looked at as a prestigious career. Do it for the right reasons, do it because you want to make a positive impact on the youth of America, not because you’re a power-hungry asshole.