I am somewhat comfortable with computers; I love the internet, but get frustrated with all the technological changes sometimes. My family got our first computer when I was in 6th grade, before that we used a typewriter (I hated the eraser strip). I didn't become an efficient typist until 9th grade when I took a keyboarding class, I guess all those Tut's Typer lessons in elementary school just didn't cut it. I started off as PC user, but now have a MacBook. In college I took a website design class, but decided that graphic design wasn't for me. I helped launch the Union-Tribune's Street (arts and entertainment) Blog as an intern for their Features/Night&Day section. I created a Twitter account a few months ago, but don't use it that often, I feel like people can just check my Facebook status if they want to know what I'm up to. I go on YouTube to watch videos, but don't have an account with them. I just got my first smart phone this past year and have been enjoy the perks such as being able to instantly upload photos, gps and accessing to the internet from anywhere.
Cal State San Marcos, though much smaller in terms of programs offered and attendance than my alma matter has always been known for the quality of its Education Department. I ultimately want to teach in San Diego county, which is one of the reasons why I want to make connections with local schools and be a part of the College of Education's program. I have not applied yet since I plan to start a Single Subject Credential program next fall, but can appreciate the mission statement. All my life I have attended public schools and believe they are the best and most affordable option for families. I believe the only way to achieve social justice is through ensuring that all students get access to high quality teachers; I want to be a part of a program that will give me the skills I need to confidently help my students succeed. I am dedicated to helping close the achievement gap (which is a long uphill battle) and promoting diversity in my classroom (if everyone came from the same background it would be so dull). I can also appreciate CSUSM's commitment to lifelong learning, since I constantly strive to learn new things every day and work toward self improvement.
Hello Alex. So you bought a smartphone. I have been putting off the purchase for awhile now I think it would consume me. I already find myself browsing the internet plenty and I only have a lab top. Do you think your productivity rate has increased since you have the smartphone or is it mostly entertainment?
ReplyDeleteHi Alex, I think it's awesome that you started the Union Tribune's Street Blog. I read their actual newspaper sometimes, but will now have to check out the blogs they have. I never realized how big blogs have gotten recently. I also admire your desire to help close the achievement gap, which is a goal I have for myself as well.
ReplyDelete@Chelsie- I'd say my productivity increased because if it made it easier for my boss to get a hold of me when she couldn't call and I wasn't at a computer. It does make it easier to kill time since you have access to facebook and all those other apps, you just have to be mindful of those distractions.
ReplyDelete@Brooke- When I was in college, blogs were just becoming popular and the UT actually launched a bunch the same summer and spread themselves a little too thin, rather than releasing only 1 or 2 and making sure quality was there at all times. Blogging has becoming a huge part of social media and the debate continues as to whether you can trust random bloggers that aren't actual journalist who are held accountable by editors, etc. Also, I have read a LOT of articles on the achievement gap and want to learn more about what strategies teachers can implement to help narrow and eventually close the gap facing many lower income and minority students.
Hi Alex, it was nice to read your intro and find we have something in common. I also went to college for a year after high school and thought it wasn't for me. I went to work for about 5 years before figuring out what I wanted to do with my life...teach! Im glad you also made the decision to go back and have found a passion in teaching as well. I wish you luck in this class as we navigate the fun (and sometimes frustrating!) world of technology. :)
ReplyDeleteit seems like a lot of people end up coming to csusm for their credential after graduating from Sdsu, myself included. I think the change of scenery will be great and allow for a new exciting experience!
ReplyDelete@MIchelle- Sorry for the confusion, but when I said "that school" I was referring to Cal State Fullerton specifically, not college in general. However, I do think it is very important to work in your field or gain work experience to learn if that major/program is the right fit for you. I have been out of college 4 years and since I am transitioning into a new area (Education), I wanted to make sure that was something I was equally passionate about.
ReplyDelete@Brad- I agree, I have run into a lot of Aztec alumni. But from what it sounds like, once classes start for the credential program we won't actually be taking classes on CSUSM's campus, but in other school districts where we are placed for our teaching assignments. I'm sure Thao knows more about this since he has already completed the credential process through CSUSM.
I refuse to buy a smartphone! I lived in Mexico City for a year and the cell phone that I used looked like a toy from a cereal box. It was just for calling purposes. When I came back to the States I purchased the most basic phone and I am pretty content with it. I already spent too much time on my laptop so the smartphone would be too tempting. Besides the fun factor, what other benefits do you get from a smartphone?
ReplyDeleteHi Alex I actually worked for the Poway Unified School District as an AVID tutor while I was doing my undergrad. I worked at Meadowbrook Middle School and even Poway High!
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