Reflection

I have learned that I need to always have patience. Whether it be with students, faculty, or just the school day in general, patience is key. I realized that no matter what you want to get accomplished in a day, that things will inevitably come up and force you to reconsider your plans. I need to make sure that I do not get frustrated by this, and am flexible to change. Students do need to have a structure, and I think giving them specific amounts of time to do something is good, but it is important to listen to them if they really do struggle or need more time.

I also realized that students will always surprise you. The 8th graders I worked with were always thinking of clever ways to complete an assignment (or a witty excuse for why it wasn’t finished). I love how much students respond to you when you show them that you really do care about them. I think it is important for students to see me as someone that is there to teach them, as well as listen to them. I want students to feel comfortable enough with me to tell me when they are struggling and know that I want to help them succeed.

Finally, I realized how much I am going to miss those kids. It was very hard for me to leave the kids, and I loved going back for my final evaluation and having so many be excited to see me. I think it is crucial for students and their teachers to have positive working relationships. I am so looking forward to meeting the students at BMS and becoming a part of their academic world. I’m a little uneasy, but the excitement outweighs the nerves.