I recently saw an online discussion among elementary teachers in response to the question: “What master’s degree should I pursue?” The answers varied from “literacy coach” to “special education.” I personally think the most interesting and fulfilling of all master’s degrees in education is a degree in T.E.S.O.L. (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)! If you are considering a T.E.S.O.L. degree, here are five reasons you might want to become an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher:
1. You Have a Love for Languages and Other Cultures
Do you love to travel? Are you interested in other cultures and the way people live around the world? Do you enjoy learning a language (or languages) other than English? If you answered yes to any of these questions, pursuing a TESOL degree might be for you!
A TESOL degree opens the door to the world. There are opportunities for teaching English all over the globe. If you live in the United States like I do, ESL positions are becoming more prevalent as our society becomes more eclectic. If you are interested in learning about other cultures, ESL teaching is definitely an intriguing field.
If you are interested in learning about other cultures, ESL teaching is definitely an intriguing field.
2. You Have Learned a Second Language, or You Have Experienced Navigating Situations English Language Learners Face Every Day
I believe that one of the most important attributes of an ESL teacher is empathy. Experience is the best teacher of empathy! I remember traveling across the Czech Republic by myself on a train; I did not speak Czech, and to this day I remember the feeling of being in a foreign place, unable to understand the people around me. It is an unnerving feeling, and it is an experience that my students face every day.
Have you experienced learning another language? Have you traveled to a foreign or unfamiliar place, with little knowledge of the language spoken? If so, you may have exactly the type of background that is ideal for an ESL teacher!
3. You Enjoy Working with and Collaborating with Other Teachers
The co-teaching model is here to stay, and at least in New York State, we are required to provide English language development (for our advanced students) within the general education classroom. I consider it a privilege to teach alongside some phenomenal teachers. I learn something from each and every one! If you enjoy working with others (instead of in isolation), teaching ESL might be for you!
4. You Love an Interesting Challenge
One of the reasons I find teaching ESL so fulfilling is the variety of students. My students come to me with so many different backgrounds, strengths and needs. Every year is a new and interesting challenge! If you are up for a challenge, ESL teaching might be for you!
5. You Want to Meet and Work with Amazing Families
As an ESL teacher, you will be working with not only your students, but you will also be supporting the families. Although there are exceptions, the vast majority of families are extremely grateful for the help of the school and teachers. As an ESL teacher, you can help families navigate both their struggles, and help them achieve their dreams.
Do you have English language learners in your classroom? Are you considering pursuing a TESOL degree? Why do YOU want to be an ESL teacher? Please comment below!
Are you looking for resources for young English language learners? Check out my Teachers Pay Teachers store, Boom Learning shop, and YouTube Channel!
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