Time Well Spent

The most obvious thing I have learned from this program is more about the early childhood field.  I have learned about child development, effective programs and practices, issues and trends in early childhood, diversity and equity, communication and collaboration, leadership, budgeting, and managing early childhood programs.  Each of these areas will be beneficial as I explore options in the early childhood field outside of the classroom.

On a more personal level, I learned more about myself.  I learned that I am stronger than I realized.  I honestly did not think I had what it took to finish this program.  There were a few times when I wanted to throw in the towel and walk away.  Thankfully, I was able to find the endurance to not only complete this program but give 150% to my education.  There were many sleepless nights and countless hours spent in front of the computer reading article after article but in the end, I am a much better person for it.  I am stronger than I once was and I have found a new level of self-confidence in the end.

Finally, I learned that I not only enjoy what I do but my love goes so much deeper.  I truly have a passion for children and the early childhood field.  I want to make a difference in the lives of children and families in my community but through this program, I have realized that my goals extend beyond my community and into the world.  I want to help create the social change I envision for children everywhere.

If you would have asked me what my long-term goals were at the beginning of this program, I would have told you that I wanted to be a director of an early childhood program or open my own center.  Through my educational journey with Walden University, I have realized that the difference I want to make in the lives of children and their families can be done in many other ways.  While I would still like to open an early childhood program of my own, I have realized that my real passion is with that of at-risk children and their families.  Currently there are not any programs in my community for at-risk children.  I would love to open a community center where at-risk children can come after school or when school is out to work on homework or school projects, tutor in areas they are weak in, enhance social skills through positive interactions with other youth, learn teamwork playing sports, and offer parents and children opportunities for growth through trainings and seminars.   This program has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities I can offer children and families to help them become successful members of the community.

To all of my wonderful colleagues:  Thank you for a wonderful experience.  I do not know if I could have done this without your encouragement and weekly support.  While the past eight weeks have been challenging mentally, I am amazed at the personal growth I have seen in myself as well as my colleagues.  I cannot believe this is the end.  I truly am going to miss our interactions as I feel like I have become friends with so many of you.  Please keep in touch!  I would love to hear about your future accomplishments.  Good luck to all of you in the future.  I will definitely keep each one of you in my prayers.  You can e-mail me at mindi651@yahoo.com or find me on facebook (www.facebook.com/mindi651).

Dear Dr. Teri:  Thank you for your personal support the past eight weeks.  You have helped me turn an overwhelming challenge into an obtainable goal.  You encouraged me when I felt defeated and calmed me when I did not think I could take anymore.  Thank you for pushing me personally, professionally, and academically.  I can see growth in myself in ways I never imagined.