Why did you decide to become a teacher?

How to Answer
Answer Example

Be sure to be open and honest and allow your passion to shine through here. Your response to this question may make you a memorable candidate and set you apart from the rest. Do some homework before the interview and align your response with the school's mission and values. Material factors such as salaries and benefits are not going to impress the interviewer. Instead, focus on a reason that would give you the motivation to continue despite difficult situations. If possible, attribute your motivation to a personal trait and not an external factor. You may also choose to mention things that you like about the school.

"I became a teacher because I believe all students are capable of learning, and I get so excited at the chance to play a small part in that. In college, I found out that I have a knack for scaffolding material and explaining how things work. I applied at the campus tutoring center and really enjoyed it. I decided on teaching because of that experience and the enjoyment I found in my classes. I'm particularly excited to teach here because I agree with your teaching model for the whole child. I am thrilled to teach all subjects and incorporate social-emotional learning into my lesson plans."

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How to Answer: Why did you decide to become a teacher?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for an Elementary Teacher job interview.

31. Why did you decide to become a teacher?

How to Answer

Be sure to be open and honest and allow your passion to shine through here. Your response to this question may make you a memorable candidate and set you apart from the rest. Do some homework before the interview and align your response with the school's mission and values. Material factors such as salaries and benefits are not going to impress the interviewer. Instead, focus on a reason that would give you the motivation to continue despite difficult situations. If possible, attribute your motivation to a personal trait and not an external factor. You may also choose to mention things that you like about the school.

Written by Audra Kresinske on August 22nd, 2021

Answer Example

"I became a teacher because I believe all students are capable of learning, and I get so excited at the chance to play a small part in that. In college, I found out that I have a knack for scaffolding material and explaining how things work. I applied at the campus tutoring center and really enjoyed it. I decided on teaching because of that experience and the enjoyment I found in my classes. I'm particularly excited to teach here because I agree with your teaching model for the whole child. I am thrilled to teach all subjects and incorporate social-emotional learning into my lesson plans."

Written by Audra Kresinske on August 22nd, 2021

Next Question