I’ve decided that I am theming this trip “Go with the Flow” because everything up until now has literally been “winging it”. I have actually never been so unprepared for something in my life, but that’s the fun of it right? For those of you who know me, you know that I am a very structured person. I am not one to “cry over spilled milk” but I do like things to go as planned and find myself upset when they don’t. As a future teacher, you have to know that sometimes your lesson is going to plummet. It’s going to go way faster than expected or way longer. It could be too easy, or too hard. It’s now my responsibility as the teacher to make those in the moment teaching decisions and understand that it is much more relaxing to go with the flow than worrying about everything having it’s perfect plan. I think this trip is going to teach me exactly that.
I am currently sitting on my plane to Amsterdam nervous and excited to start this adventure. I am not one to step out of my comfort zone like this, but am excited to see how God uses me and strengthens me on this trip.
For the next 3 weeks I will be student teaching in a Dutch elementary school. By doing this, I will gain a whole new perspective on a different country’s education system and hopefully take what I learn and use it in my own classroom one day. I know immersing myself in this environment will be one of the most beneficial tools I can give my students. Being globally and culturally aware is critical aspect to education and I am excited to become more culturally aware this trip!
After we spend three weeks teaching, the group is headed to Spain to do some traveling. I have always been fascinated by Spanish culture and I cannot wait to visit all the places previous abroad friends have suggested. (Hopefully my 8 years of Spanish will come in handy!)
Although I will be missing all my friends, family, and my sweet Lily B. fourth graders, I am excited to come back and share with them how I let this trip “go with the flow” and all the things I have learned.
Until next time,
Shan
~Disclaimer~ It is currently 3 am on the plane and I haven’t slept- please ignore all grammar mistakes, I’m tired.
shanquinn6 