my journey to becoming an art teacher
Today I am a hard working wife, mother, artist, student, and teacher who has a passion to show people the value in art, as well as impart positive thinking and acceptance of others.
Family heritage and influence
My family has always been a huge influence on my love for art. I was blessed with generations of artistic abilities and encouragement. My Great Grandmother, Great Aunt, Uncle, Cousins, Dad, Brother, and I were known in our family as the artists. My mom has always been extremely crafty, making our clothes, Halloween costumes, crocheting and quilting. She encouraged me more than anyone, buying me art supplies and not bothering me when I was in my room drawing. My dad used his artist ability to work with welding, restoring, and painting classic cars. My Uncle was an artist who often showed his wood carvings and drawings at local art shows and galleries. I would often ask him to show me how to draw. He gave me some of my first drawing lessons. My Great Grandmother just loved to paint. I remember seeing her paintings when we would visit and I now own one of her paintings. Here is a look at the artistic family influence I grew up with:
Elementary - High school
School was a huge influence on me. My teachers were always encouraging me to be creative. I will never forget some of the art experiences I had as a child. In second grade, my dance teacher made me the lead in my dance group and was disappointed when I decided to quit dancing after one year. Every time my art was hung in the hallways at the elementary school, I felt so proud of myself. My Junior High art teacher was the best. He always helped me problem solve when I was determined to make my ideas work. My High School teacher displayed my work in the High School art show and in the Scholastic Art Show. It was in High School that I first realized I wanted to be an art teacher. When I should have been working on my own art, I would help other students on their work instead. My teacher never said a word though. I was the talented, but lazy student. Looking back, I wish he had pushed me harder to create more art and make it better. Although I received an "Outstanding Achievement in Art Award" I didn't go off to college after high school.
After High School
After graduating from High School, I worked various jobs, but I still felt a need to be creative. Although I wanted to go to school for Cosmetology, going to school for Nail Technology (Manicuring) was an inexpensive alternative for me to start a career and use art. I entered a nail art competition while I was in school and won 3 awards for my designs. As a Nail Technician, I was known in the salon for my hand painted nail art. I worked as a Nail Technician for about 4 years when I decided to go back to school for Cosmetology. While in school I won first place in the long hair design (updo) contest. I loved working with hair, because I could sculpt with it. As a cosmetologist, I have worked with all ages and types of people with varying needs. I have done manicures, pedicures, facials, make-up, hair removal, and all types of hair. My favorite has been hair color, hair cuts, updos, and bridal make-up, as I have been able to use my creative and artistic ability while getting to know people. I continually go to classes to stay current on trends and techniques, so I can expand my love of learning, as well as better serve my clients.
College
After working as a hairstylists for several years, I was able to see how the changing economy effected people, especially after 9/11. Shortly after, I assessed my future and decided to finally pursue my life long dream of becoming an art teacher. I had two young children, who were one and four years old at the time. I knew it was going to be a long and challenging endeavor, but I was determined to pursue the career I was meant for. Not only was I doing it for myself, but for my children. By showing them the importance of hard work and the dedication of getting a college degree, they will grow up with a positive outlook for their future.
I started taking college classes in 2006 and graduated from Oakland Community College with an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts in 2009. I transferred to Oakland University where I completed my Bachelors Degree in Art Education in 2014. With each passing year, the challenges of being a working mother while taking college classes have changed. When I took my first college class, I was so overwhelmed, I could have never imagined what I am capable of accomplishing today. Taking on a leadership role, volunteering, substitute teaching, working as a part time hairstylist, and taking care of my family all while finishing my degree have taught me some of the most valuable skills a teacher needs - multitasking and organization. I have had some great mentors who pushed me beyond my comfort zone and I am very grateful for the learning experiences I have had in college. I love learning and will continue to learn through new educational opportunities, my teaching experiences, and my students.
I started taking college classes in 2006 and graduated from Oakland Community College with an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts in 2009. I transferred to Oakland University where I completed my Bachelors Degree in Art Education in 2014. With each passing year, the challenges of being a working mother while taking college classes have changed. When I took my first college class, I was so overwhelmed, I could have never imagined what I am capable of accomplishing today. Taking on a leadership role, volunteering, substitute teaching, working as a part time hairstylist, and taking care of my family all while finishing my degree have taught me some of the most valuable skills a teacher needs - multitasking and organization. I have had some great mentors who pushed me beyond my comfort zone and I am very grateful for the learning experiences I have had in college. I love learning and will continue to learn through new educational opportunities, my teaching experiences, and my students.
