Welcome back to Finish The Sentence Friday Blog Hop (FTSF). We give you a sentence and you finish it (however long or short you’d like). Please feel free to link up and follow any or all of our hostesses, which are below.
And now for this week’s sentence to finish: “The best fourth of July I had was…”
And the next sentence to finish: “In church (place of worship), I learned to…”
If I could go back and do something over it would be…
going for my master’s degree in teaching, because before that I didn’t have any student loans.
Yes, education essentially is a good thing, but not when you train for a job that pretty much doesn’t exist, because of the economy or budget cuts.
I must admit as much as I wanted to be a teacher and was at the time happy to further educate myself, now I curse and rue the day that I did this and took on the extra debt, especially when I submit my monthly payment for this loan.
I also will freely admit, I am not wanting to teach now even if jobs became available right now simply for the massive push towards state/federal tests.
It is no longer about having the student learn and become more well rounded individual in the end, but competing with other countries who has the best test scores.
That is truly a sad state of affairs and simply not why I became a teacher. Having to worry about my students’ testing scores versus their ascertaining their learning and understanding of fundamental concepts to help them in their daily lives as they do indeed grow.
I truly also don’t want to take another full-time position working in one district for a year and then being let go, because of the old adage of “Last In, First Out”. And then, start over again in a new district. This seems to happen more often then not in this line of work right now and yet another reason to add on to my frustrations with teaching.
In the end, I must admit, I am so very happy that I found my way with my writing (my blog) and design (J9 Designs) through this crazy path, I took, but just wish I didn’t have take this long, expensive detour to get here.
Now tell us if you could go back and do something over what it would be!!
Last, but certainly not least, please don’t forget to check out my web design company for specials running at J9 Designs for all your web design needs, as well as my blogging advice, too.
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catherine gacad says
Janine, this is so disconcerting to hear. I have been researching a post on whether or not education is worth it.
Janine Huldie says
Catherine, I am sorry to be such a downer on this, but this is just what I have found in my own experience. My husband has two Master's degrees (one in teaching art and one in graphic design). Luckily, he found employment with graphic design, but his teaching degree has not helped him at all since the jobs in this field are few and far between here at this point in time. Just so frustrating and annoys me when I see the debt we have only because we were trying to better ourselves.
Karen says
great post babe, I totally agree with you. Way back when I was told the more degrees and certificates I have the better jobs I will get and more money I will make…what a laugh that was. It's the opposite, the more degrees and experience you have your resume gets thrown out and they look at younger cheaper teachers.
Luckily I have one more year of daycare then we no longer have that expense…it will be less stress if I do get laid off again.
I think the whole education system is a joke. We are expected to teach to tests and get high scores…while also providing individualized and modified lessons and assessments. As a special education teacher and reading specialist, I have seen it all. It doesn't work, you CAN'T have the best of both worlds… we need to either change the state wide assessments to fit each individual students' needs or go back to teaching before special education laws which is what the state tests really expect…
My recent post WOULDN’T CHANGE A THING
Janine Huldie says
Karen, you said a mouthful here and it really is deplorable how special needs students are expected to pass and excel on these state wide exams as if nothing is wrong with them. That angers me more then you know. Just the whole state of affairs really irks me and gets under my skin. Thanks for listening to my mini vent and for sharing that I am not alone in my frustrations here!
Ruchira says
I agree with your pointers, Janine.
Going for higher education and then sitting at home turns out expensive.
Luckily, I could pay off my loans after my masters by working for 4 years. But, still as technology is changing with the wink of an eye…if I ever go back…I will have to learn quite a few techniques to go back and start working in the lab.
voted for ya!
TGIF coming π
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Ruchira and happy to hear that at least you were able to pay off your debt. But it is just scary how things are nowadays with education and the lack of jobs out there. And again thanks for the votes, too!! π
Dana says
I have a master's in Clinical Psych – I had to get it to get a job in that field. I will definitely counsel my children to think long and hard about the field they want to pursue, and the education they need to get there.
My recent post A flying fiasco
Janine Huldie says
Dana, I think you counseling your kids sounds wonderful and know when the time comes, I will definitely try to be there and help guide my girls to the right career path for them, too!
Sarah says
Oh, it's hard when something we want to re-do was so expensive! I have been teaching for 15 years, and I consider myself lucky that I started teaching in the late 90's economy, as I do see so many great teachers let go due to budget cuts. As for the testing, I guess since I don't teach a "tested" subject, it's a little better…. I've simply made peace with the fact that I love being in the classroom, and I will deal with the politics to pursue my passion. I am glad you have found your passion as well! π
My recent post Your Life is a Do-Over, But Parenting is a Rerun
spdmama says
Visiting from Ahola Friday. I'd like to invite you to my Friday Flash Blog, where you can share your best blog entry of the week! The party goes on ALL weekend at thejennyevolution.com. And who knows, you may just get featured next week.
Janine Huldie says
Thanks so much and will definitely try to linkup with you!! π
Billybuc says
I was going to finish the sentence but nothing came to me. LOL I must be tired. Have a great Friday Janine!
Janine Huldie says
Oh no worries and am on my way to bed in a few now, too Bill!! Have a wonderful Friday, as well!! π
Rich Rumple says
As long as we continue with the "No Child Gets Ahead" teaching methods and restrictions, we're doomed. Personal growth depends on the opportunity to excel. Unfortunately, when education is aimed at the lower mentality, instead of the target goal, we end up as we currently are. Sad state of affairs. My cousin has been in teaching for thirty years and although she still loves the kids, admits that teaching is not the fun it once was. Way too many intelligent kids are now bored, while the lower levels still could care less. C'est le vie!
My recent post It's Tuesday, So It Must Be Rambling Time!
Janine Huldie says
So true Rich and your cousin sounds like many seasoned, veteran teachers I have known. Honestly, couldn't agree with you more and just wish something would be done to change this for the better now! But I am sure that is just wishful thinking!!
Betty Taylor says
I am making the weekly rounds with Finish the Sentence Friday. I had trouble linking my post this week.
My recent post Can I Get A Redo???
Janine Huldie says
Sorry to hear Betty. Where did you try to link from? If you still can't link, send me your link, name (you want to appear) and your e-mail at jnine0712@me.com and will add it for you!! π
dawnsdisaster says
I wish I had my Masters. But then again, I also feel the same about teaching. It's hard…
My recent post FTSF~If I Could Go Back…
Janine Huldie says
Dawn, I guess I should be glad and happy to have my master's degree, but the cost of it just drives me quite mad!!
Lanaya says
dIt is SO SAD to me that our education system is lacking so. Especially considering that we should be hiring more teachers, not laying them off. The classroom sizes getting bigger and the teacher to student ratio is appalling. We shouldn't have to be worried about our children's education but if course we have to worry. We have teachers like you who can't get work! Ridiculous.
Ok … off my soap box.
LOVE the new blog style/header/button, etc. That J9 Designs sure knows what they are doing … hehe!!
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(¸¤ Lanaya | xoxo
Raising-Reagan.com
My recent post A Very Inspiring Blogger Award – Round Two
Janine Huldie says
Lanaya, I have the same fear for our kids, too and having been a teacher in recent years and knowing more then I should know, i worry that much more. I will be the first up at school defending my kids if the education system full of standardized tests are failing them, simply because I can and will do whatever I can to help my girls. Thank you for your kind words about my new design though and I had so much fun playing around with it yesterday!! π xoxo!!
marykatbpcsc45 says
Hi, thanks for hosting another great hop. I really enjoyed reading your post. It is so sad what teachers ahve to face these days. Relatively speaking, I worked for two school districts as a school librarian and enjoyed the experience. I really loved teaching, but like you, I don't like the politics, long hours, and low pay. Education is a great field but you do make a lot of sacrifices that others who went into careers like business don't have too.
My recent post Friday Blog Hops of Creative Writing and Inspiration
Janine Huldie says
My pleasure in hosting Mary and like you it was the politics that got to me in the end and just wished for so long things could indeed be different, but now I know better. Just glad that it led me down this path though and I guess my mom was right, everything does happen for a reason!!
massholemommy says
OH MY GOD – you haven't changed one bit since you graduated! What's your secret?
My recent post The Mystic Aquarium
Janine Huldie says
Oh thanks Robin for saying that and totally put a smile on my face, but god knows I definitely have aged a bit from that time in my life (nice to know you think so thought!!). π
MelChi says
You're never too late to do that Janine! π But I understand why you wouldn't want to go back to teaching now…especially after all you've done in the past year. I don't know what I would want to do over because honestly, it's all got me to my writing and where I am today. So, probably nothing! Have a fab weekend!
My recent post Baked Apples with Cinnamon “Pie” – in a Mug (Microwave Recipes)
Janine Huldie says
Oh thanks for getting where I am coming from Melanie and also thank you for your kind words. Totally appreciate it and hope you, too have a great weekend!! π
Kenya G. Johnson says
Yeah I've got a BS in Communication that I went back for as I approached 40. At the moment it's a few lines on my resume and something to hang on the wall, but the paying back of student loans that really makes me regret the decision. I won't say never because that would really be pessimistic, but I'm just not in a good area for Communications.
My recent post I've committed a crime…
Janine Huldie says
Sounds like you totally understand Kenya and can totally feel your pain as you know from this post. I would be a great teacher if it weren't for the standardized tests and the politics of it all, but seriously don't have the stomach for those two, so I will stick to this, which at the very least does make me happy!! π
anothercleanslate says
Student loans are the worst! Especially when you don't think it was worth it… I would love to get my MBA but just can't justify the cost. Maybe someday…
My recent post If I could turn back time…
Janine Huldie says
Katie, my brother had his MBA and works as a stock manager at AC Moore, because he is too over qualified for entry level with a Master's Degree. Seriously just crazy and have seen so much in recent years to turn me off to higher education. So sad, because I never felt this way growing up and couldn't wait to go on to further my education. sorry to be Debbie Downer on this, but just was I have unfortunately seen in this regard!
Lisa @ Golden Spoons says
I'm with you. I don't have my masters, but I used to teach special needs preschoolers for the public school system. The job I did 10 years ago doesn't even exist in the same capacity now and, even if it did, I don't think I would want to go back to it. My hubby has been contemplating getting his MBA but questions if it is worth the time OR the $$ to do so.
My recent post Do we get do-overs?
Janine Huldie says
Lis, it really is so frustrating and know it sucks having to make the decision you husband is contemplating, but may not gain employment from and then still have to pay off bills for it. I have no advice just hope it all works out for him in the end whatever he decides!! π
clark says
very true! it's amazing how relative the phrase, 'I don't have enough time for that…' is when you are looking back!
I distinctly remember (several) points in time when I have thought, 'you know, I really should get this degree (or that degree) but I fell for the 'no time' available' trick that we all play on ourselves.
very good insight.
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Clark and I know I think we all have these types of thoughts, but now I m starting to see that not much can always come from these thoughts in the form of employment unfortunately.
Chris @HyeThymeCafe says
That's all I've been hearing about lately – how much trouble this generation will be in because of college debt weighing them down. Indentured servitude is a term being tossed around a lot. On the other side of the equation, you practically can't get a job at McD's nowadays without an advanced degree! It's a crazy world we live in!
Janine Huldie says
Oh so true Chris and it is quite frightening and not sure exactly when this trend began to occur, but seriously somethings need to give and change!!
spiritedlife says
You already know that I agree with you on this one. One of my loans have been in deferment for a while now, and although they aren't pushing me to start paying it, it still means that eventually it will have to happen. Getting a legally education isn't much better. Although a lot of people think you're "smarter", it doesn't really help until you've proven that you're capable because there are so many not capable ones out there. Unfortunately, showing your capability means that it's long hours, away from your family, and a "commitment to the job" over your family. At this point, I know very few attorneys who love their job… and the ones that do, typically don't have a family, especially kids.
With all that said, I'm not sure I would "un-do" it, because then I can't say that I would've met my husband or have the wonderful children that I have. I spend my time now helping others not make the same mistake in the first place.
My recent post Fitness Friday {8}: 9 Ways to Keep it Moving {with #Linky}
Janine Huldie says
I love that you do help others with this now and I know you can totally relate to this. But nice to know that you at least feel it helped you in meeting your husband and having your kids, too. Sometimes, we do need to do something like this to at the very least bring bigger and better into our lives!! π
Light and Life says
That's a good answer! I think many parents see the gaps in the government school system and then decide to homeschool. That's got it's pluses and minuses too. I hear that Finland has the best government school system in the world and that teachers are respected and get paid like doctors and lawyers, but it's a horrible language to try to learn. Hahaha! Enjoy your weekend! P.S. I'm not posting my usual Make My Sat. Sweet this weekend.
My recent post Picture Perfect Party Linky #47
Janine Huldie says
Oh thanks and I had a feeling you weren't Hope you are enjoying yourself and you too have a great weekend!! π
stephsprenger says
You know what? I think it is awesome that you actually answered this "question" honestly, rather than take the "I wouldn't change a thing" route. (Not to criticize those who did that- I did it!!!) That is a huge, brave statement of yours. I'm glad you are on a path that works for you, and who knows what the future holds? And by the way, I *totally* love your new look here! Bravo!
My recent post My “Do-Again” List
Janine Huldie says
Oh thank you Stephanie. I seriously just wrote what was on my mind and how I feel. I love my life, but hell yes I would change this totally if I could. Being educated is wonderful, but if it does't pay the bills, then I have to question what good it did me in the end. And glad you like the new look. I think it fun and colorful and really had a blast doing my own redesign!! π
@Noel_Rocs says
This is definitely something I can relate too, as well. I have student loans that I'm having to pay and if I had it to do all over, I would have chosen a different college and a different path. BUT, we wouldn't be who we are if we did things another way, right? Debt & regret happens to us all at some point in our lives–I think it builds character π
What I really wanted to comment on, though, is your point about "teaching to the test" because that really IS sad. I know what you mean, because with my little one soon starting school this year, I've already gotten a taste of what the classrooms are like and it's way different from when I was a child. They don't even have the play time they used to have AND kindergarten is all day. We went half a day and that included a nap. They go all day, no nap, sit in the desk all day and don't even get to play with blocks, anymore π I wouldn't want to be a teacher, now, either, for the same reasons as you.
But ya know what–that's your degree and you earned it. You can always say it's yours and it will always open doors for you, should you need them opened. There are other options out there besides teaching public school (if you ever wanted to teach again). The training you received is also beneficial for your everyday life as a woman and mother. Great, great post. I loved this a lot. Congrats on the success of your other businesses.
My recent post Real Talk: Potty Training, Cottonelle Wipes & Good Toilet Paper.
Janine Huldie says
Oh Noel, thank you for your kind and wise words. I honestly appreciate them more then you know. It does frustrate me and I am truthfully scared and feel bad for what lies ahead for my girls. So this is just something that has been weighing on me for awhile now. But thank you again and glad you could at least relate a bit, too!!
NuggetOnABudget says
I was wondering what you were going to write about! This is good. I didn't go to grad school, but my sister in law did {for marketing} and after she graduated, she worked for about a year and then she had her first baby and has never gone back to working. And I know she never will because her husband is well off. I always think of it as such a waste, especially all those years she could have been working instead of going to grad school. So i understand you on this one. I'm glad too, though, that you've found blogging and your J9 Designs! Happy Friday mama π
My recent post july group giveaway at dawn's disaster!
Janine Huldie says
Oh thank you Kera and it just such a fact for so many right now sadly. When I write these posts, I literally write the first thing that pops into my brain for the sentence and this is just where it took me. But thank you again and hope you, too have a great weekend!! π xoxo!!
The Dose of Reality says
Oh, I totally get what you're saying and this just breaks my heart. What is going to happen as all of the intelligent, qualified, professional people are driven out of teaching? It just makes me sad. I wish I knew what to do to help. It's such a big system to be pushing against and it feels like nothing will ever change (except for the worse, of course) Teaching's loss is blogging and designs gain in this case, though! –Lisa
My recent post Pinterest Nightmare #728: Meggings
Janine Huldie says
Oh thanks Lisa. I love what I am doing now and really am hoping that this will open even more doors for me if that makes sense!! π
findingninee says
Janine,
I've got a student loan I'm still paying as well. It sucks. But I wanted to say…the reasons that you give for not wanting to teach are some that are the reasons people like you make great teachers. As a parent to a boy with special needs, I think it's really sad that the profession is not drawing a lot of new, dedicated people. I know things need to change (pay them more, for one), but it makes me sad that people like you who would make such a difference for the better have decided it's not worth it. I'm glad for you that your writing and design company are making you enough money to pursue that but I'm also sad that you decided to not be a teacher, if that makes sense…
My recent post What would you do over?
Janine Huldie says
Kristi, I was truly touched by what you said here and please know I did love the concept of teaching, reaching and helping all students across the board, but I hated the politics behind it and the actual teaching for the test. No two kids with learning disabilities are truly alike and believe me I taught the gamut and was so happy to see any spark for all my students (both those who had learning disabilities and those who did not). I just wanted to help them and it hurt me more then you know when I would have administrators tell me that a child just needed to pass and was another statistic, because they were anything, but that to me. So that is what got to me in the end (if that makes sense). But believe me, in a perfect world, I would have loved to remain a teacher to help all my students reach their potential and then some.
Chance of Wine says
Yup. I can totally understand this. I think it's important to a child's education when the teachers stay put in their jobs and are more a part of the school community. I went back to Singapore for the 50-year reunion of my school in 2006, and I saw my old English teacher. He was THE BEST teacher I've ever had. I had him for 3 classes throughout high school, and he made a lasting impression. I don't think he really knew who I was, but I said, "do you still have your kids writing Working Papers" (which was a journal we had to keep) and when he looked at me in surprise that I had remembered, I said, "you were the best teacher I've ever had." I doubt those kinds of moments happen much these days from what you just described. And that's so, so sad. π
On a positive note, if you hadn't have gone through that detour, we wouldn't have met online!
My recent post I got a tattoo
Janine Huldie says
I love that positive that we did meet and that I definitely wouldn't have changed for the world. And that story you just shared put a smile on my face and even though I only taught for a few years, I hope I made that impression on at least one of my former students. Thanks for sharing Dani and seriously so glad we are friends!!! π xoxo!!
canigetanotherbottleofwhine says
I jumped up and down the day I made the last payment on my student loans. It seemed to take forever! But I didn't even get a Masters, so I can only imagine having to pay that much more. Ugh. And then to not be working in or wanting to work in that field – double-ugh.
My recent post Stick a Cork In It! (Weekend Update #21)
Janine Huldie says
Oh I am genuinely happy to hear you paid your loans off and only hope that in the next few years mine will be paid for. Thanks for understanding and it is just rough sometimes to get that payment notice and not get annoyed at the situation. I pay them every month and never missed a payment, but still quite annoying!!
jenkehl says
I totally hear you Janine! I haven't done anything with my degree!
My recent post Sabra
Janine Huldie says
Thanks Jen for sharing that it isn't just me and sorry though that you do get this!!
Alana Terry says
so true. I meet a lot of women who wish they could be stay at home moms but they can't because they have too much student debt. π Maybe one day you'll find a creative use for your teaching degree though and realize that money wasn't wasted!
Janine Huldie says
I hope you are right Alana and maybe someday that will indeed happen!! π
Joan Robertson says
Hi Janine. I did my best to join the Hop, there was still over an hour left on the linky, but it wouldn't accept my post link! So I've given it up, finally.
My recent post THE INTIHUATANA, THE RITUAL STONE OF THE INCA IN SPANISH AMERICA
Janine Huldie says
Joan, I am so sorry and wish you would have told me sooner and so would have helped you link up for sure. Please keep me posted for next week as I really had no clue this week and feel terrible.