Time Well Spent

This has been an amazing journey! I have enjoyed the time I have spent learning in this program. It seemed so far away to the end when I began this journey, but looking back it seems like it has been quick! At times I felt I was going to have to give up because I was feeling overwhelmed by working on my Masters, working full time, and raising three children and a husband who made me feel like I had four children! At his point I can say now that I am so glad I didn't give up! I am even planning to continue on for a Doctorate. If I made it through this, then surely I can make it through that. I feel one of the greatest things that I learned from this program is to care about all children. I can't just focus on the ones that I am in direct contact with. An effective Early Childhood professional is one who works to improve all children, not just the ones in their area. Second, the next greatest thing I learned is how to put personal biases and stereotypes to rest. I even realized I had some personal biases that I didn't even know I had! Lastly, an important lesson that I think will change me in a great way is that everyone has something to bring to the table. There is power in numbers and I can do a much better job by considering the opinions of other professionals. So no more being Miss do-it-my-way, and not asking for others' opinions. A long term goal I have is to be in our state administration building as an employee. I want to be in the midst of where laws and regulations are made and can positively impact the lives of young children and families and their futures! I have enjoyed being a part of this group of students in this class. I feel like I have been afforded the opportunity to read and discuss things with a wonderful group of intelligent individuals. I am thankful to have learned from them. Dr. Meyers, thank you for comments on my papers that were encouraging and uplifting. I always doubt my abilities for things and always worry that I didn't understand the assignment correctly or second guess what I have written. The positive remarks have built my self-esteem and encouraged me to continue on to my Phd. Thank you for all of your support. I wonder is anyone in our group planning to continue on in a Phd. at Walden? Please keep in touch sbrown@pcdcva.org