Are you an educator or parent who has a burning question that only a “seasoned teacher” would know the answer to? If so, look no further than “Ask a Teacher”! Every week we highlight one reader’s question and answer it on our site. If you’d like your question answered email us at info@theeducatorsroom.com!
Question: I’m a junior in college and I want to be a teacher. I’m on track to graduate with a degree in History and a minor in Math. The problem is I can’t decide which one will get me a job quicker. Should I begin teaching immediately or should I go straight to graduate school! I need some advice.
I love a college student who is planning so far in advance! First, I must commend you on selecting two areas of 
concentration that will make you highly marketable. Math teachers seem to always be in demand, so that may just be your ticket into most school districts. Be sure to pass the PRAXIS for both areas.
When deciding on whether or not to continue to graduate school or to immediately enter the workforce, the two aspects of your life you must take into consideration are the part of the country in which you live, and your current/projected financial situation. Ask yourself these questions, and your answer might be easier than you think!
- Where do you plan to work? Are there lots of schools in the nearby districts with a fair amount of teachers who retire/transfer regularly? Check the online job lists for openings in the schools in your area to see if there are often positions in history and/or math.
- How do you plan to finance your graduate work?
- No one wants to incur (more) debt. Some school districts will pay for graduate courses if you teach in an urban area or special/high-risk schools.
- Look into graduate assistant programs at your university. If you teach a class or two, you may earn free tuition.
- Do you have children or a spouse who depend on steady income?
- If so, it may seem like a no-brainer to immediately enter the workforce, but consider the new bills you will incur just because you’re earning a larger paycheck. Don’t fall into that trap! More money, more problems .
- Do you plan to get married within the next year?
- If so, the stress of teaching full time and wedding planning may not mix well.
If you have no commitments, my suggestion is to continue with graduate school. If you enroll full time, chances are you can finish in three semesters—one calendar year. During this time, you can arrange your schedule so that you can be a substitute teacher, which will make you a familiar face in the schools, and hopefully a first-choice candidate for a permanent teaching position because the principal has already seen you in action. Be sure to let The Educator’s Room know what you decide!
