Expert: Debba Robinson - 11/10/2005

Question
Hello. I am a 24 year old college student. I have wasted alot of time trying to "pick" a career. I have always wanted to be a teacher, but decided against it due to the salaries. Now I am realizing this is the only profession that will satisfy me. The advisors at my local college are not helpful. Students are rushed through your appointments and no questions are really answered. I need to know what is required to become a teacher. I am considering being an art teacher,or an elemetary teacher. But I am not sure if art requires more specialized traing/degrees? Also is it a possibility to teach while still earning your degree? Because I don't even have an associates yet. Thank you so much for any help you may be able to offer. Also, I am in North Carolina.

Thanks,
Courtney


Answer
Dear Courtney,

First of all, you DID NOT waste a lot of time trying to 'pick' a career.  Nothing that has gone into helping you decide can be considered a waste.  What would have been a waste was if you had taken all your classes and done all your thinking and then ignored what your heart told you.  So, welcome to the class of Experience 101!  You have earned an A!

Now, I am so sorry to hear that your college advisors are being less than helpful in your quest for what your career choice is going to involve.  Every state is different.  My first suggestion to you is that you contact your state's Department of Education - usually in the capital.  You can speak to someone there who can talk to you about the requirements they have toward certification and might even be able to point you to some good teacher colleges or universities.

I have taken some of my post graduate studies at Plymouth State University in New Hampshire and KNOW that they would answer questions for you if you contacted them.  Do a search for it and call for more information.  

I did my undergraduate study at Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio - and THEY would certainly answer questions as well.  

I am 30+ years beyond those beginning levels and know that things have changed so very much over the years.  I know that answers I might give you from my experience will be less than useful for you.

But, if you don't get any satisfactory answers from contacting one of these suggested resources, then PLEASE get back to me and I will track down some people who CAN answer your questions.  OK?

Debba