On Friday, May 13th, members of the MAT@USC community participated in the 2011 Master’s Commencement Ceremony. In this post series we’ll be showcasing some of these remarkable graduates.
It’s hard to believe that I have completed the MAT@USC program! What a journey it has been! Looking back on my experience in the program, I have to say that I have grown not only as a professional, but as a person. The MAT@USC has enlightened me in the most profound way. I have learned about theories that will help me be a good teacher (if not the best!), in addition to the hands-on learning experiences that will enable me to be a life changer and create social change. The MAT@USC taught me how to reach my full potential and be prepared for the unexpected; in other words, how to be flexible with my lesson plans and the students and be ready for whatever comes in the way of learning.
But this isn’t the only thing the program has given me. I’ve gotten something that has a much bigger value: my friends, my dear Trojan family. For those who haven’t experienced a sense of Trojan pride, I have to say this is not a cliché at all. It’s real!
I have met many wonderful, smart, creative people who throughout the program have become family. We have supported each other during the first semester all the way to guided practice and beyond. They have seen me (virtually and some in person) complain, joke, laugh, and cry. They have listened to my ideas and points of view, even if they disagreed with them. We have learned in a socio-constructivism virtual setting. We have proofread each other’s papers and reminded each other what it takes to be a great teacher during the good times and the challenging ones (i.e. papers due, the dreaded PACT, state licensing tests)! We have also reminded each other why we are doing this, why we want to be teachers. This is not about us; it is about the children–children who need good role models and teachers who care to close the achievement gap!
Graduation is around the corner and cannot come any time sooner! I cannot wait to see my friends, my professors, and everyone who has made this dream of becoming a teacher possible. I deeply care for each of them and I am happy that the journey does not end just because we are “walking the walk.” The journey has just started. Throughout my career I know that I will have many learning experiences, some of them will be tough to endure and learn while others will be filled with joy and aha moments. However, I am glad that not matter where I teach, my friends will be just a phone call or Skype away.
Fight on!!
Learn how MAT@USC can prepare you for your Hawaii teacher certification by contacting our Admissions office at 888.MAT.1USC or email us at matadmit@usc.edu.
