Sept. 30, 2008 issue

In 1999, while working at Ford Motor Company as an electrician, I decided to attend classes at Eastern Michigan University to complete my teaching certificate. I received my bachelor's degree in 2003 with a double major in math and science. I minored in early childhood education. My Michigan Elementary Teaching Certificate includes an early childhood endorsement.

During my undergraduate years, I completed two practicums at the Children's Institute. When a job opening was available after I graduated in August 2003, I jumped at the opportunity. I already knew what they expected, was familiar with the staff and really enjoyed my previous experiences at the Institute. I had found something that I loved and that made me happy.

As an electrician, I enjoyed problem solving and troubleshooting, but being a pre-school teacher is much more rewarding. Working with four-year-olds is an enjoyable challenge because every day is something new and different.

My schedule is the same as the children's. We use a play-based curriculum that helps children develop their social skills and their fine motor skills. Our focus on fine motor skills helps develop the muscles children need to learn how to write.

I received my master's in early childhood education in 2005. As long as I am employed at Eastern, I hope to remain a pre-school teacher. I have found something enjoyable and rewarding in my position here at EMU. — Contributed by Krystin Jarrell

 

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