This blog has been adapted from a writing assignment by Autumn Green, cohort 9 teacher resident at The Educator Academy. A staff member formatted this to fit a blog, making edits solely for legibility and readability purposes. The Educator Academy does not endorse any specific ideas or opinions expressed in this blog.d
At The Educator Academy, our teacher residency program is more than just a pathway to certification—it’s an opportunity to serve, grow, and make a lasting impact in schools. As an AmeriCorps program, our residents commit to a year of hands-on teaching experience while receiving financial, professional, and community support. Through this partnership, residents gain valuable classroom training, a living stipend, and an education award, all while working toward becoming highly effective educators.
We’re excited to celebrate AmeriCorps Week by sharing inspiring stories from our EA residents and AmeriCorps members each day! Today, Autumn Green is sharing words of wisdom for future teachers. As a dedicated resident in our program, she reflects on her journey to becoming a teacher and how The Educator Academy has equipped her to make a meaningful impact in the classroom. Read below to learn more about Autumn’s experience as an AmeriCorps member with The Educator Academy!
Considering a Career in Teaching?
If you’re thinking about becoming a teacher, I want to say good luck! It’s a beautifully tough career that’s incredibly rewarding in the end. I won’t sugarcoat it for you; while teaching is amazing, it comes with its challenges. However, as long as you remember why you’re here and who you’re doing it for, you’ll be alright. If you choose to embark on this journey, I highly recommend starting with The Educator Academy (The EA), regardless of your experience level in education. Having a strong foundation is invaluable, and The EA provides support through both the challenges and successes. I remember feeling scared and overwhelmed at the beginning, but with The EA, I never felt alone in my journey.
The Reality of Being a Resident Teacher
Before diving into a resident teacher role, it’s crucial to assess your comfort level with earning less while doing more. Money can play tricks on your mind and make it hard to focus on your passion. Prepare yourself for the workload ahead! Take a moment to consider how you’ll feel financially. If you decide to pursue this path, it’s essential to have strategies in place to manage the potential financial stress. Some of my favorite coping mechanisms include talking to a therapist, leaning on my cohort, or simply allowing myself a self-care day—even if that means lounging on the couch and binge-watching my favorite show.
What I Wish Others Knew About Education
One thing I wish more people understood about the education field is how underappreciated teachers often feel. Yes, we all know this, but it’s worth emphasizing that many teachers experience this sentiment both inside and outside their schools. Navigating this world can be tough, but it’s important to stand firm in your values and your reasons for doing this work. Building solidarity with your coworkers is crucial—only other teachers can truly grasp what we feel and experience.
The Most Rewarding Experience
Reflecting on my time in education, the most rewarding experience so far has been seeing a difficult student evolve into one of my favorites. It’s not every day that you find yourself calling a student—who, for lack of a better word, was annoying—your favorite. But building rapport makes a significant difference, and sometimes the most unexpected rewards are the most gratifying.
The AmeriCorps Experience
As for my experience as an AmeriCorps member, one of the best aspects I believe newcomers should know is the sense of security it offers. I feel reassured knowing that if I need help, there’s someone ready to support me. This sense of community can make all the difference in what can be a challenging yet fulfilling journey in education.
Teaching is a journey filled with ups and downs, but with the right mindset and support, it can also be one of the most fulfilling careers you choose!
Start Your Teaching Journey
Make a lasting impact in your community by becoming a teacher! Through The Educator Academy’s residency program, you can earn your teaching certification while gaining valuable, hands-on classroom experience.
Learn more about AmeriCorps and our Residency Program today!