After Graduation: what's next?!

 I graduated!!! But...What's next?!?

CONGRADULATIONS! You have made it through the hardest part of becoming a teacher! I know that my last few weeks of graduation was one of the most stressful times of my life! I actually did my end of semester project completely wrong! But that is probably a story for another time! 

So, now that you have that AWESOME degree, what happens now? I'll tell you that I'm sure that my personal experience was probably not the norm but everything works out either way! It's all going to be alright! 

Towards the end of my internship, I knew that finding a permanent position was going to be almost impossible in the middle of the year. Especially the school district that I am in because it is one of the most competitive that I have ever seen.  Thankfully, a paraprofessional position opened up! The day that it was posted I went to the principal and talked to him about it and was told to apply the same day! Before I even walked across the stage I had this job lined up for me! 

Something important that I have learned is that there will be times where that perfect position just isn't out there yet. That's okay! The main thing is to get a foot in the door! Apply for every position even if it isn't your top pick! That's what I am in the process of doing now! I am applying for every position that I can because in the long run it is better to turn down a job than to not have one at all! 

The fact is that schools need you. So don't worry! The perfect position may not be there but it will be eventually! Something else that I learned is that now is not the time to stress. Where I live, there is currently only 4 math teacher positions open that I am certified for. I was told, however, that this is really uncommon! Positions usually do not even begin to open until AFTER spring break! All this time I was worried for nothing! 

Overall, the main message is put yourself out there! Whatever you end up doing make sure that you do it to the best of your own abilities. I know that right now, I spend each day trying to make sure that my job as a Para is done better than the day before. I also take every opportunity to help other teachers as well. I love to go around to teachers (especially in the math department) and be of any help that I can! It helps to build rapport within the school and show that you are a team player! That's what I think teaching is all about! Helping each other and putting the students first!

In all that you do, make sure it is done well! Go forth, and TEACH!!