29 30 When many hear about what I want to do in the future, they often respond with “well that takes a heart” or “you must have a lot of patience.” I desire to work in special education in the future, specifically with behaviors. Some students may struggle to regulate their emotions which may end up in chairs, lamps, or desks being tossed around the room. Students who struggle to regulate their emotions and need someone who is patient, calm, and caring. It is not very common for students to go into education with the purpose to provide specifically for such students. My goal is to make an impact on these students. Throughout student teaching, I have had an amazing opportunity to intern in both special and general education classes. There were many hearts that I was able to touch. You will truly never know how much a little act can help a student through a hard time. The question I have been asked many times after stating what I want to work in is “why?” For me, this is a silly question and I answer with “why not?” Growing up, I lived with both of my parents and my aunt. My aunt qualifies for special needs under many different categories. While she did not struggle with behaviors, she did teach me how to have patience. My eyes were opened to the difference a little patience and love can make in anyone’s life. With this, my eyes were opened to the students who struggle with behaviors. These students are children who are in need of love and patience. They need someone who will listen to them when everyone else wants to tell them to “calm down” or “control your actions.” One person can make a huge difference with a little bit of learned patience and a tender heart. However, even if teachers are not in a special education class, it doesn’t mean that there aren’t students with special needs in a classroom. When you enter any classroom, you are entering a room of wonder and opportunities, but with that comes bumps in the road of behaviors. These behaviors may be both mental or physical. My purpose is to make a difference in students’ lives and through student teaching, I have been reassured that I can make an impact that is meaningful and worthwhile. UNCOMMON PASSION Alli Gaddy Elementary Education, Special Education Major Personal Essay, Photography
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