Each of us is unique, so expect your experiences this year to also be unique.

Some compare the BEd year to a diamond, for it is multifaceted. Some describe it as a zipped file, absolutely jam packed!

And others call it a roller coaster ride, for there are highs and lows. It’s important for BEd candidates to know that these highs and lows are normal. And it’s recommended that you monitor your growth, and recognize the natural stages of your journey.

Don’t be concerned if your journey isn’t a smooth one, or if one week (or placement or assignment) seems worse than the last.

Fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the journey.

Stages in the Journey as Teacher Candidate or Intern*

Anticipation (What if?): excitement; anxiety; normal doubts or worries such as what if I made the wrong decision; what if I can’t do this; what if I have a difficult class; what if I don’t get along with my associate teacher; am I a student or a staff member or; how will I juggle my other responsibilities.

Disillusionment (What’s wrong?): you may reach a time when you are not as certain or positive about your practicum as you would like to be. You may find yourself not looking forward to the day or muttering to yourself or grumbling to friends. Feelings of frustration, anger, sadness, disappointment, discouragement. Sleep deprivation too.

Confrontation: not denying any problems but, rather, facing and studying what is happening to you and “moving through.” Reflecting and making plans to get out of the swamp. You’ll know that you are through this stage when you feel more independent, more effective and more empowered as a learner.

Competence: with more competence, your excitement and accomplishments will grow. Morale and trust are high. You are beginning to feel like a professional. If you strive for perfection, not excellence, however, you may face stress from your non-teaching life.

Culmination:  as the year ends, you experience pride in your achievements and sadness that it’s over. You reflect on your continuing education plans, friends and family and relationships. You may be left feeling empty or unfinished or guilty if you don’t attend to this stage.

*Adapted from H. Frederick Sweitzer & Mary A. King, The successful internship: transformation and empowerment. Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole Publishing Company, 1999.

If you want to start a personal journal of your journey, the Journal template might help. Hit the "Journal" button below.