The last few years have been tumultuous and it’s possible that all the challenges and changes have given you the time (and space!) you need to think about your career path. Maybe you’ve recognized a deep need to make a difference in the world, a desire your current career isn’t quite fulfilling.
If that sounds like you, a master’s degree in teaching might be right for you. Teaching is one of the most rewarding and life-changing positions you will find as you look to make a change in your career. Here are a few reasons why.
- The world needs good teachers.
There are shortages of teachers across the country, and people like you can help fill that gap. This means teaching is a profession that offers job security — in fact, it’s one of the most secure jobs there is. Even in a recession, teaching positions are proven to offer job security because of the ongoing need for educators. That makes teaching an especially viable option for those who are between careers.
In short, if you’re a prospective teacher, there is no better time than now to pursue a career in education. The world needs you.
- You can utilize your strengths in new ways.
Have you always been a math whiz, but felt as though you’ve never quite had the chance to fully utilize those skills? Maybe this is a chance to use your skill set in a new way by becoming a math teacher. If you’re a lover of history or a solid writer, you might think about the humanities or social studies. Maybe you’ve always been good with kids — the K-5 track might be right for you.
Whatever you choose, the best part about teaching—especially if you’re thinking about it as a change in careers—is that you can leverage your skills and experience. You can use or refresh the skills you’ve already cultivated.
- Teaching will help you learn and grow alongside your students.
Of course, while teaching is primarily about guiding young minds, you might be surprised how much you will learn while you’re in front of the classroom. Studies indicate that the absolute best way to learn something is to teach it yourself. Not many careers give you the opportunity to learn something new every day.
Additionally, beyond just academic knowledge, teaching provides variety — new faces, new curriculum and new learning styles every year. It is a constantly evolving and evergreen career field. Teaching allows you the opportunity to evolve and grow with your profession, always learning as you go.
- You’ll get the chance to shape the future.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, teachers fill a role unlike any other in the world. In the words of American historian Henry Adams, “A teacher affects eternity; he [or she] can never tell where his influence stops.”
As a teacher, you will be charged with the responsibility of molding and shaping the young minds of the next generation. They will be from all walks of life, and each of them will have something different to offer to the world. These students will be at one of the most impressionable times in their lives, and you will be given the opportunity to leave a lasting impression. That’s a powerful thing. Sure, it’s a little scary, but it’s important that the right person is making the impressions. You could be that person. You could help change the future for the better.
If you’re hungry for a challenging profession that can make a real, tangible change in the world you live in, then teaching is for you.
Want to learn more?
Trevecca’s Master of Arts in teaching program gives you the opportunity to experience hands-on practical application of what you've learned. Through Trevecca's partnerships with local schools, your coursework will include observing, collaborating, and student teaching in a Nashville area classroom—whether you’re pursuing Elementary Education (K-5) licensure or Secondary Education (6-12) licensure.
