John
Schmitt
Personal Statement
In March
of this year, I left my life as a successful musician and songwriter living in
Brooklyn to spend 4 weeks walking the Camino de Santiago in northern
Spain. During this time I walked over
500 miles in rural villages, climbed a dozen mountains, made friends with
people from all over the world, and experienced more living in 4 weeks than
most do in 40 years.
One of
the many things I took away from going on this historic pilgrimage was a clear
understanding of what I wanted to do with my life. I vowed to be an instrument of change in this
world, to work to educate children on the lessons of the past, and to get to
work on it as soon as I got back. It is
my goal to teach history and social studies to adolescents.
My
favorite teachers in both high school and college were all history teachers
that instilled in me a great understanding of historical cause-and-effect. I learned that by understanding the lessons
of the past, as they relate to the present, we can shape and hopefully better
our future. I believe the role of social
studies educators is crucial in helping form this better future, and I know that
this is my calling in life.
When I
have told those around me my desire to become an educator, I was told numerous
times that this is "not the time" to get into the profession. Instead
of deterring me, this sentiment only fuels my desire to take up the challenge
of educating our children at a time when budgets, resources, and opportunities
seem to be less and less.
Upon
obtaining my Masters of Arts in Adolescent Education in Social Studies, along
with my New York State Teachers Certification, I will begin work immediately on
educating our youth, and use my talents in music to enhance the classroom
experience. I will also volunteer my
talents and experience with distance running and baseball to coach students and
promote an active lifestyle after school as well.
I am
incredibly excited at the potential opportunity to study and become an educator.
