An Indian elementary teacher in US

[renu nair]

Hi,

I am doing my student teaching as part of my Masters in Education, at a University in Lowell. I worked as a substitute teacher before starting my Masters and to my surprise I didn't see any Indian teacher at the elementary level. This is giving me nightmares. After spending quite a lot of money on this, if not having the American accent comes in the way of getting a job, I would be devastated. It's been just 2 years in America for me and I have a lot to learn about the American culture, but my English is good because all my education has been from English medium schools in India.


Can someone tell me if there indeed is a light at the end of this dark tunnel? I love teaching and this is what I always wanted to do.


Thanks,
Renu

[Unregistered]

Just because there's noone there yet, is not reason enough for you to get worried or depressed. It only means that noone from your country or culture has yet arisen to the position you strive to reach. You can be the first one, . (and maybe encourage others of your dominion to join your ranks. You should be hired on your merits of your ability to teach, not on the basis of having the "right" accent or not. I think if you are prepared enough the accent becomes of secondary importance, and the material you prepare to teach is primary.

Good Luck with your advancements towards your goal.

[renunair]

Thanks for those inspiring words. I feel relieved that I indeed am moving on the right track. Like you said, everything depends on how good a teacher I am, so maybe all I have to do is be well-prepared.

Thanks,
Renu

[Unregistered]

Hi Renu,

I am Indian and taking my praxis to become a teacher. I am a chemist and a chemical business analyst. About 7 yrs. ago, I decided to stay home and raise my girls. Now that the girls are in school all day, I thought it would be nice to get all my qualifications in order to apply for teaching positions in my area. I currently have a math and science tutoring business and love teaching. Kids don't really care where you come from and what kind of accent you have. All they really care is how you connect with them and make them understand what you're trying to teach them. Don't give up just because there aren't any Indian teachers around. It's not about where you come from, but about you are here to help the kids.

Good luck.

Wanna be Indian teacher in NJ