About Me:
I am a recent college graduate who just was accepted to Teach For America. This was my 2nd time applying after being waitlisted last year as a senior. I am a fan of the organization and strongly believe in their work to solve educational inequalities. While awaiting my corps membership to officially start this summer I am currently nannying to pay the bills and support my wife Beecher and Daughter Taylor. In addition I'm blogging, volunteering, and preparing for the opprotunity of a lifetime.
FAQ's
What's the point of Wes' TFA Adventure?
I hope that this blog can address these five points which are also categories for posts on the blog:
- A place for Applicants: I strongly believe that too many people who are well qualified to be effective teachers and social movers fall through the cracks in their applications simply because they do not have the resources. This includes knowing what to stress/showcase to be a good candidate. Far to often many fail to adequately demonstrate strong points that TFA values and looks for. In doing so I will not expose any confidential acceptance mechanisms TFA uses ie- interview details. I will however explore all aspects of the application from the regional preference form to the waitlist.
- Newsworthy & Ed reform: Teach For America is the flagship organization of a sea change in education in our country. Some topics will focus on Ed Reform from Race to the Top to Teacher Unions. Also when Teach For America finds itself in the news I will share as a CM and fan of the organization.
- Institute & Teacher Prep: Info on TFA's Summer Training Institute including my own experience preparing for Teaching and the Summer Institute!
- Criticism: Lets admit it- people hate. Lets debunk the rumors that seek to destroy a positive social force in our society.
- Teaching!: Well sooner or later I'm going to be a teacher. Will be writing about being in the front of the classroom sometime soon.
Do you represent Teach For America?
No. I do not in anyway represent the organization. While I am/have accepted to be a corps member (CM) My views do not represent that of TFA. They are my own and are not influenced by the organization. I speak for myself and candidly about my experiences.
Do you have special insight into the TFA application process?
No. My insights simply come from the outside looking in as a two time applicant.
Who are you?
The name Wes is a pseudonym. At this time I do not feel comfortable releasing my name because I want to be able to talk freely about my experiences without having to censor myself. I want to be free to do as I please while keeping basic ground rules. I will not be doing ambush reports of TFA or will bash them but will over concise criticism when it is due and praise when it is due. Mostly praise though!
