TeachForAmerica?

[RapidBreath]

I've been offered the final interview process. I was wondering if any one has gone through this program, and if so, what did you think? I've read some good things and other really bad things (law suits, violent students) I'm concerned that I don't have the skills to control a difficult classroom. I look white. If I were placed in a school with a primarily other ethnic makeup (as most of the tougher schools are) I would be concerned about being taken seriously. Also, I'm not very tall. eeps.

Do you guys think I should even bother with the interview process?

tia,

Alisha

 

[morningstar]

There will always be pros and cons to any decision, but don't make that decision based on fear of failure. Once you do that, you will always regret backing down from a challenge because you didn't have faith in yourself. This challenge seems like it has enough in it to really make you feel like you have accomplished something - and new jobs should feel overwhelming, scary, anxiety-producing, or they aren't enough of a challenge and they won't stimulate any personal growth. I say go for it!!!!

 

[melimcn]

A good friend of DH and mine is one of the VPs for Teach for America.
For her, she would say it's extremely rewarding, and that the benefits outweight the challenges.
Most of the schools here in Chicago are mostly ethnic, and she has taught in some of the toughest, gang-laden neighborhoods. (BTW: She's white, 5' tall and very proper) So I say if she can do it, anyone can. I think that's one of those situations where you find hidden strength, and can actually surprise yourself with how well you do.

Like the other poster said, don't pass on it because you're afraid to fail. Look at is as a new challenge and something you can tackle head on.

Good luck!

 

[pixiesis]

I have 2 friends who did TFA--one taught Spanish in inner-city Baltimore. He found it tough but rewarding, and I believe he still teaches Spanish, but we lost touch. My other friend actually did Teaching Fellows of New York, which is a similar program but for NYC. She was teaching elem. sch. in Spanish Harlem. She said it was a tough program, but she completed it. It turned out she didn't want to teach, but I'm sure it helped her get her job at a publisher of educational textbooks in NYC.

I've considered it, but since I'm pretty sure I don't want to teach at the elem/sec levels, I don't think it's for me. I think it's a wonderful opportunity though, for the right person. Tough but worthwhile, and you get a Masters Degree too.

Amy