I have just finished my second year in the elementary education program with a minor in physical literacy, at Mount Royal University. I have wanted to become a teacher since I was five years old. Growing up, most people warned me that my mind would change, but as I continued to go through school, my goal did not waver and it only made my vision stronger.
Both my parents work in schools and I was blessed to have amazing teachers throughout my education, which further encouraged me to go into this profession. I have always wanted to be able to impact the next generation and model the way, as many of my teachers did for me. Therefore, the last few months working at the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area (ASCCA), as an educational assistant has been such an incredible opportunity for me.
This job fell right into my lap at the perfect time and I knew it would be a once in a lifetime opportunity I could not pass up. Not only is it in my field of work, but it also includes one of my favorite things, the outdoors! I remember after I finished my interview with Anna, she took me out on the ATV and we did a practice pond scoop, modelling one of our activities in the Amazing Mini Adventure Program. I have always enjoyed going on walks and hiking; however, this was a different side of nature that I wasn’t super comfortable with yet.
Once I started the job, I immediately felt super welcomed by the team; Anna, Ryan, Reg, and Jacob. I slowly got introduced and started to shadow the Web of Life Programs. I enjoyed the collaboration process throughout this learning period of the programs, as every volunteer added their own unique twist to the day. This is where I had the chance to work with just one of our lovely volunteers here at the ASCCA, Gary.
Gary is a Scouts leader and has volunteered with Anna for the past five years. He took me under his wing and I got to see his genuine passion for nature transpire to the field trip students. To see how the kids responded with such an excited engagement towards Gary, was truly rewarding. I made a commitment to myself to embody a similar ingenuity while leading programs and figuring out my own niche. Through Anna and Gary’s guidance, I was able to build up confidence, not only in my delivery of knowledge, but also my teaching presence.
This job taught me invaluable lessons that I will take with me in the rest of my teaching journey. I got to work with a range of elementary students, practice differentiated instruction on the fly, see what classroom management strategies worked/didn’t work, and how each teacher interacted with their students. I believe all these learnings will make me a better educator in the future. And looking back, I don’t know if another job opportunity or even practicum would have taught me in the ways the ASCCA did, as this was such a unique learning environment. |
Even though this job was a short contract, I am extremely grateful for every moment of it, as I enjoyed working with different schools/kids, as well as familiarizing myself further with the beauty of nature, in my own backyard. So many friends and family members I told about this job, had not heard of the ASCCA. I truly believe this place is a hidden gem and I wish more people knew about it. The fact that I got to work outside in such a breathtaking environment, was such a gift for my physical and mental well-being. I wouldn’t trade this experience for the world and it will definitely not be my last time visiting the ASCCA!
With gratitude,
Julianna
