First and foremost I learned probably the hardest lesson thus far in my career.  I consider myself a big picture thinker, and motivator of others.  However, this class I learned that paying attention to detail and instructions will go a long way as a professional.  I always thought so long as we reached our goal it didn’t matter how we got there. Defiantly not the case.

 

I also learned that the problem and challenges of our chosen profession extend far beyond that of just those inside the classroom.  It was eye-opening to learn that issues and trends begin with children and their early stages of development.  All issues and trends society are facing are compounded by our ability to support families and children in the early years.

 

Lastly, the most important lesson I learned is that though I am defined and perceived in my job as a hard, rule follower, and firm.  I never wanted any of my employees to fear the idea of me.  I believed that fear fed discontent.  I learned that sometimes fear can be good.  As each week passed during this course my fear of what was to come grew.  It was not the fear of not knowing it was the fear if disappointing my professor and myself.  She gave me everything I needed in order to be successful yet I let fear get in the way of my true potential.  I need to remember that as a leader and a supervisor I need to know how to inspire each of my staff.  Every person is inspired or motivated differently.  I realized that as Dr. Teri is an extremely challenging professor she pushes beyond what you think you are capable of.  I appreciate everything that I have gained from this program.

 

My long term goal for myself is to become a more positive and effective communicator.  I want to be able express my passion with less emotion and more confidence.  I hope to challenge others and earn the respect of all I work throughout the rest of my career.

I want to thank you Dr. Teri for redefining that true educator and passion for our field still exists.  Your support and guidance has been unmatched by other instructor in this program.  Thank you for taking my passion and love of children and helping make it my profession.

 

Thank you to all of my collogue who have taken this journey along with me.  I am so inspired by each of your stories and feel blessed to have been part of your journey!  Best of Luck to Each of You!!