Why I Chose Education: Abby Wirthlin
Ever since I was young, I have always wanted to be a teacher. I remember giving presentations and creating projects about my dream career as a teacher throughout elementary school. When I was little, I would create a summer school for my little brothers to attend against their will, and reading time with my stuffed animals was a daily tradition. As I grew older, I had more opportunities to work with and teach younger children through nannying, babysitting, teaching swim lessons, helping run sports camps, and more. Throughout my childhood, whenever people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I could confidently respond, “A teacher!”
Although I had always dreamed of becoming a teacher, as I got closer to leaving for college, my confidence in that decision began to fade. I became more aware of people’s reactions when I told them I planned to study Elementary Education, and the opinions of others became louder and louder in my mind. By the time I started college, I told people that I didn’t know what I wanted to study and that I was going to complete my general education courses during my first year while I figured it out. The negative opinions and comments of others stuck with me, and I became convinced that there had to be a better career out there for me. I attended different club meetings, tried various introductory classes, and researched many different majors and minors, but nothing seemed to truly fit.
After my freshman year, I went on my mission, where I was reminded of my love for teaching. I returned to school with a renewed confirmation that studying Elementary Education was exactly what I wanted to do. While many people still have their own opinions about my major and the career I have chosen to pursue, I can now move forward with confidence, knowing that teaching is something I am passionate about and called to do. I love teaching, and I cannot imagine studying anything else. I am now involved in youth mentorship programs, private tutoring, substitute teaching, and volunteering in classrooms. Being able to pursue something I love so deeply has brought me so much joy, and I cannot wait to see where this path takes me. I am excited for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of my future students and to continue to grow as I look to serve those around me.
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