From transformative lessons in their clinical classrooms to inspirational connections with teacher leaders, many EdRising students can point to a particular moment that cemented their desire to pursue a career in education.
Read on to learn how some of our national student ambassadors knew they wanted to become teachers.
’He learned that from you’
I had a transformational experience in my kindergarten clinical classroom. While the supervising teacher, Mrs. Jessica, was teaching, I noticed one student was struggling. I decided to walk over and help him.
I sat with him and helped him write his ABCs. At first, I tried seeing what he could do, but he continued to struggle. Finally, I thought of different ways to help him understand. I could see it click for him and then he wrote the letters so fast.
When I came back the next day, I saw him writing every letter with no hesitation. Mrs. Jessica then looked over at me and said, “I don’t know how you did it, but he learned that from you.”
That experience made me realize the profound impact I could have on students’ lives, and it further sparked my passion for teaching. The experience also showed me how important teachers are. I want to be a guiding light for my future students, I want to help them overcome any challenges or obstacles they might have. I want to educate the whole child, helping them build skills and experiences beyond the academic realm. I want to teach difficult concepts and help students solve complicated problems so they can discover their full potential.
—Rory Watts, 12th grade, Lincoln County High School in Hamline, West Virginia
Finding a mentor
Dr. Broderick, my Secondary Education Academy instructor at Central Montco Technical High School, helped me realize that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. Dr. Broderick made sure I knew she was supporting me no matter what, and that I was going to go far in life. Even though she is one of my newer teachers, she created such an amazing school experience for me that it made me want to go college and become a teacher.
Without her, I would not be as confident in myself. I hope to become a teacher just like her — someone filled with knowledge who spreads kindness all around. I want my students to feel comfortable talking to me about their feelings and sharing their opinions, as this will help them grow, feel supported, and develop into confident and kind human beings. When students are aware that they have someone who is there for them, it goes a long way. It helps students go after their goals and dreams. I am pursuing a career in education because I want to be a teacher who helps students reach their full potential.
—Amber Sanders, 12th grade, Central Montco Technical High School in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania
A chance to create ‘meaningful change’
My Educators Rising Moment came at a time when I was searching for my purpose. Coming from a family of educators, I had always appreciated the value of teaching, but I wanted to go further — to break barriers and create meaningful change in the Jackson Public School System.
When I attended my first Educators Rising event, everything clicked. Being surrounded by passionate individuals made me realize that education wasn’t just a career — it was my calling. I chose mathematics because it’s an often-misunderstood subject. I want to make it exciting and accessible for all students.
Educators Rising has given me the tools and platform to inspire confidence, break barriers, and show students they can rise above challenges. It’s not just about teaching for me — it’s about changing lives.
—Asiah Scott, 12th grade, Forest Hill High School and Jackson Middle College in Jackson, Mississippi
