What a Recruitment Manager at Teach For America Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Teaching Industry
Shaneli, a Recruitment Manager at Teach For America, emphasizes the crucial, often overlooked aspect of work-life balance in teaching, stating that "work-life balance is really key," and maintaining a "work-free weekend" was essential for their well-being and ability to effectively support students. This personal strategy highlights the importance of self-care for maintaining effectiveness as an educator.
Work-Life Balance, Stress Management, Resilience, Motivation, Overcoming Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Shaneli Mirpuri
Recruitment Manager
Teach For America
UCLA 2020
Relay Graduate School of Education; Masters of Arts in Teaching
International Relations & Affairs
Education, Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Human Resources (HR)
Video Highlights
1. Work-life balance is crucial in teaching and can significantly impact your ability to support students effectively.
2. Setting boundaries, such as work-free weekends, is essential for maintaining well-being and preventing burnout.
3. Prioritizing self-care ensures you can be the best possible teacher for your students, impacting student outcomes positively.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
I had heard a lot about how challenging teaching can be, but I think the thing I wish I knew more about was just the fact that work-life balance is really key. It's really hard to achieve as a teacher.
But if you are not happy with your own life, if you are not safe, if you are not supported and happy yourself, you probably can't walk in every day and support your students. I think that's really important to figure out where that line is for you to have a happy life.
That way, you can take care of your students. You can walk in every day with a bright smile on your face and help them through their own problems.
One of the biggest things that I did for my first two years of teaching was I had work-free weekends. I would grade papers Monday through Thursday, but from Friday through Sunday, I would not touch my computer or a single graded paper.
That was really my way to make sure that my weekends were my own and that I was taking care of myself. That way, when I walk in Monday morning, I'm well-rested and energetic, and I can make sure that my students are getting the best teacher in front of them.