Corinthia Myrick

 “I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.” These famous words, lines 15 and 16 of the popular poem “Invictus” by William E. Henley, reflect my progression through education. These words have encouraged my advancement and helped mold me into the individual I have become today. My future goals include attaining two advanced degrees, teaching literacy courses at a community college, publishing a children's book, and opening a school for literacy.

 

 I recall weeping in my closet after school because my parents did not have the knowledge or educational backing to keep up with the rapid progression and rigor of my advanced placement school. I sat in the sorrows of defeat when my fifth grade elementary school teacher advised that I was not capable of handling the work load and that I had a poor work ethic.Although I faced many difficult times in the pursuit of my undergraduate degree, the words “I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul” carried me through. Being told time after time that I would never achieve, my faith in myself coupled with determination, persevered the pessimists. My thirst for knowledge has never wavered and I will continue this educational journey until I have reached the highest degree attainable.

Working on this Masters degree has helped me to continue to grow professionally and remain academically abreast while inspiring young souls to press forward and never stop chasing their dream. As an educator, I look to innovative educators such as Horace Mann, to observe, learn, and sometimes let their experiences guide me in the right direction. I want my students to look to me for guidance and to let my words and actions become one; to help youth as well as adults become well-educated and learned members of society.

 

As I continue in the field of education, I plan to get another Maters degree in teaching English as a second language and also a doctoral degree in organizational leadership and change. I noticed while working on this current masters degree, I was sort of driven away from leadership within an elementary school. I continued to grow in the education field and noticed that I would probably be a better fit in a college setting. I am pleased with my decision to teach in a community college. I plan to use the resources I've created many of the classes I've taken on the post-secondary track. My short-term goal is to start teaching about two literacy education classes and building on throughout the years. I want specifically teach young adult literature in different content areas.

 

I’ve also been looking into having my children’s book illustrated and published online. My long-term goals include opening up a grant-funded school for adult literacy. I am seeking more information before I open a school for adult learners. All of these goals are attainable. I’m excited for what the future holds and I am even more grateful to have my goals shaped by working through Michigan State to receive this Masters degree.