Juggling

As much as I should be working on homework, doing laundry, resting, applying to schools, or any one of the other items on my list to check off (showering perhaps should be on the list as well,) I feel that I just want to blog. So sorry, Mom and Dad, I know that you are both going to be annoyed at me because of how much I've been complaining about having a full plate, but I am going to include here a quick update. I'm feeling inspired, so I'm going with it.

I just got back from my Wednesday night class with my Discovery Channel instructor. We talked a lot tonight about identity and how knowing ones self is a key element to teaching. So through this blog, I am actually sharpening my craft. This is not time wasted! His lecture was encouraging to me because although I may not be a ready-made teacher, and I have a long road ahead of me before I "master" any techniques (mastery here, not being literal: we've been taught over and over that one never "masters" the art of teaching,) I am suitable because I know myself. I will be able to make connections to and for my students in an authentic way, and I will have the privilege of doing so in my own unique way. Man, it feels good to be affirmed sometimes. Always.

Speaking of affirmation, I was fortunate enough to have a letter of recommendation written for me by my ESL professor. She is a very impassioned woman and I have had the opportunity to make a connection with her over the time that I have been her student. Her letter moved me to tears, and I feel very honored. I want to share it with you guys because you're the people who I know feel proud on my behalf. My honor is your honor. So please, take credit for some of the wonderful things she has mentioned: you are those who have shaped me to be the person that I am.

February 25, 2011



To Whom It May Concern,

It is with great pleasure that I write this recommendation for Alyssa Van Eerden who has been a student of mine at North Park University in Chicago during the 2010-2011 School Year. For the duration of that time, Alyssa was a true asset to the classes that I taught, in the ESL Teacher Endorsement Program. Her outstanding ability to analyze, critique and write resulted in her always producing excellent and scholarly work. Alyssa consistently demonstrated very strong study habits and was one of the most superb students in all of my classes. Alyssa has a drive to learn and is truly a life- long learner. She is also a very conscientious and committed student and strives at accomplishing her endeavors, always going above and beyond.
I recently had the opportunity to supervise Alyssa during her mini teaching practicum in an elementary class at Mary Seat of Wisdom School in Park Ridge, Illinois. I must say that she is a very strong teacher candidate. She is a natural born teacher and presents her lessons in such a motivating and enthusiastic manner that the students are eager to learn and fully participate in class work, discussions, and activities. She demonstrates great knowledge, talent, and technological expertise which she so creatively applies to her lessons and always implements teaching approaches that are sensitive to different learning and performance styles. Alyssa shows great compassion and understanding for multiculturalism, global issues, and diversity. This can be attributed to her studies in ESL, traveling and studying abroad. Her enthusiasm and love for foreign languages, diverse cultures and in general learning, enhance the environment in which she teaches. Alyssa is also very good at classroom management and did a fabulous job with the students during her observations.
Lastly, I must comment on her very pleasant personality and outlook. She is a very friendly, energetic and positive minded person. She is also a very conscientious and committed student/teacher and strives at accomplishing her endeavors. She conducts herself in a very professional manner and demonstrates the qualities of a fine teacher.
In writing this recommendation, I am sure that Alyssa will prove that her exceptional qualities are indeed the exact requirements that are needed in any academic setting. Should you need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,


Angelyn Balodimas-Bartolomei, Ph.D.
Associate Professor-Coordinator
ESL Teachers' Endorsement Program
Professor of Comparative International Education
School of Education
North Park University