Responses from books read and from classrooms visited allow me to produce a thick, rich layer of knowledge.

One night I read about literature circles. The next day my mentor teacher and I decided that I would do an introductory lesson on literature circles. I was able to take my conversations with my colleague, material from my text, and knowledge about my students and compact all the necessary components together for my presentation.

I formed an educational philosophy to prepare students to become true and just democratic citizens that represent a democratic society.

I believe my Massena experience to be invaluable especially because it allowed me to test myself and my ideas in the "real world."

When I started this field experience, my goal was to become a more confident teacher. I have surpassed this above and beyond.

I want to be the teacher that they remember as being the one who changed their life for the better.

I can honestly say that I have learned a great deal over the past six months.

I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to observe real teachers in action.

Now I can devote myself to becoming a TEACHER! My heart is open to any and all, as long as I reach one, I will continue because I have it in me to be a great teacher, just like my favorite English teacher was.

Reflecting on this program and the changes that I have gone through has taken me a long time to put down in words. I have learned so much, solidified so many ideas and techniques, seen so many great and not so great learning lessons, spoken to so many professionals and read enough literature to keep my head full and bugging for years to come.

I am very proud of the work that I have done this semester and the pieces that I have selected for my portfolio. Not only that, I am proud of my accomplishments throughout the entire program. I feel as though I have learned so much and grown in so many ways. I am a much different person and a much different teacher than I was when I started the program.