1. You like working with young people. Lets face it, if you don't like kids, then you have no business in the teaching profession. I believe that every teacher has a window of about 2 grades that they are most gifted with. The trick for teachers is to find what those two grades are that fit you the best.
2. You are an expert of one of the subjects taught. I am certified in two subjects but I am clearly better in one. It makes a huge difference in your credibility when you come from a position of mastery in your subject area.
3. You have lots of patience. Yes, its true. Young people can test your patience. You better be able to handle it and not get upset at every little thing.
4. You have the gift of empathy. This one is key. If you cant put yourself in the shoes of students who have a different background, upbringing, and living environment than you do then you wont be much help to the ones who arent very much like you. If you are thinking, why cant they just act, think, and be more like me then you should not be teaching.
5. You are a little bit crazy. This one is a little bit tongue in cheek but there is some truth to it. Anyone willing to give up the time, effort, and salary required to teach has to be at least a LITTLE crazy right?
