Demonstration of Illinois Professional Teaching Standards
 
 

• Peer recommendation from Summerbridge Cambridge

• Mentor teacher recommendation

            Working at various jobs and administrative committees in college has really made me grow as a professional and as a leader.  Right before freshman year of college, I had to student observe freshman at Lane Technical Magnet School in Chicago.  I was only a few years older than these students but they did not know that.  I made sure to dress and speak professionally and not just to be an older buddy.  I began to understand what education meant as a profession.  It is more than tutoring or being friends with kids.  It is more than being a role model.  It is about growth, development, and achievement.  It is about gaining perspective and empowering students with knowledge.

            In college EPS 201 and EdPsych 211 has made me critically assess and develop my own educational philosophies.  My teaching internship with Summerbridge Cambridge has put my philosophies into practice.  Summerbridge challenged me professionally as a leader.  I co-taught two classes and was the department chair of Communications.  Students and staff looked to me for guidance, support, motivation, and ideas.  The responsibility was tough and demanding but I loved it and I knew I did a good job.  But I couldn't have done my job without constant consultation with mentors, staff, parents, students, and community members.  Professionalism demands leadership but also cooperation. 

I have internalized the saying that the best leaders are the best servants.  I have found that being on the administrative board for registered student organizations also means doing the most work.  Being the Vice President of Alpha Lambda Delta was my first administrative position in college.  I remember making a lot of mistakes but learning so much from them and  becoming a better leader.  For Krannert Center Student Association I have set up shows on Friday evenings until 1a.m.  I have spent countless hours volunteering there and I still love it.  Again in these positions I have realized that I cannot make decisions alone but must consult other members of the organizations.  I must also maintain professionalism and set the example for general members. 

I have also strove to set an example in the classroom as a student.  Usually I am early and prepared with notes.  I love discussion and even set up and lead study groups.  In this section I have included:

1) Staff (peer) recommendation from my teaching internship at Summerbridge Cambridge

2) Mentor teacher recommendation 

            Although I have made improvements in leadership and professionalism, there is still a lot I have to learn.  What makes a good leader versus an excellent leader?  Definitely experience will be one of my teachers.  For professionalism, I am eager to continue my teacher training here on campus and on-site as I student next spring.