Introduction Listo, Resto del Camino a Seguir (introduction ready, rest of the way to go)

Throughout the second week of ISM, I have begun to understand everything that it will take to succeed in this program, and what I will have to do to make it count. Although the class is picking up speed quickly, I am prepared for all that it has in store. This week I dug deep into what I want to get out of this program and learned ways to improve the introduction of what will soon be my final presentation.

The week began with the draft of introductory presentations. While reading the rubric, I made a list of all the different things to take away from this program. Not only do I want to end this program with a solid foundation for future job opportunities, but I want to leave having made a difference in the kids I meet during my mentor visits. One of the most fascinating things about being a teacher is that you get a chance to love on kids who may not get that same attention at home. This year I will meet kids in the bilingual program who may not come from the best home life, financial situation, or family. One of my many goals in life is impacting kids lives just as mine has been changed by teachers in my past. At such a young age, I already have an opportunity to start impacting these kids lives! How cool is that! Being a teacher is my passion and the fact that I get to start having practice and experience in this field as a high school student is a once in a lifetime experience that I am so thankful to have.

After writing the speech, the day of presentations came and I was feeling pretty good about it. It was not until I stepped up in front of my class and teacher that I realized that I have a long way to go until feeling one hundred percent comfortable in front of an audience. After presenting, the class along with Mr. Spiece proposed a list of suggestions to work on to make the speech the best it can be. I am determined to get to the point when I can check all these factors off my list of things to work on. Not only did the personal constructive criticism help, but listening to other classmates speak and all the feedback they got widened the ways to improve presentations. I am excited to see my class grow as a group and as individuals this year.

Moving forward from this week, the excitement and determination to do things with one hundred and ten percent has continued to grow. I will constantly strive to improve my public speaking and strive to make my final presentation the best it can be. I am excited to take on week three of ISM and all the learning experiences it has in store.