MTC or Not???

   Ok, here it is. Should you join MTC or not? If you aren't afraid to lead, then join MTC. If you don't run from challenges, then join MTC. If you have a genuine interest in helping kids, then join MTC. If you have true work ethic, then join MTC. Lastly, if you aren't a complainer/whiner, then join MTC.
   At this point, I don't think it's my place to tell anyone whether or not to join MTC. I will say that I've learned, through experience and observation, that it is not for everyone. Like all things in life, there are "different strokes for different folks." That said, you have to really make sure that you know who you are before committing to a program like MTC. No one has themselves figured out completely, but at the very least, you need to have a good idea of your beliefs--know where you stand on certain issues. Be firm in your decision making, because indecision and second-guessing leave you in a very vulnerable place.
   Leadership. We've talked about leadership in our classes, and the word is thrown around (mostly haphazardly) at our schools everyday. You are going to be put in situations where the only way you can come out of them positively is if you take a leadership role. Leadership is not necessarily being at the forefront--it's more about understanding what needs to be done, and how to get it done. All too often, MTCers find themselves in spots where they aren't sure if they should step out or fall into the pack. It's better to step out. I know this from experience. If you step out on an honorable foundation, the situation will work out in your favor. Don't be afraid to lead, because if you don't, your MTC experience will not be all it should.
   Challenges. Everyday will present a new challenge to you. It is imperative that you take those challenges head-on. If you cower and tuck your tail to run, then you will not last long. And if, by chance, you do last, you will not be effective at what you do. People quit because they aren't really used to challenges. People aren't good at their jobs because they aren't really used to challenges. This is not to scare you, it's just an admonition for you to be completely honest with yourself. What challenges have you really faced? Did you really respond to them in a good way?
   Genuine interest in helping kids. Don't come in trying to be superman or superwoman. You can't save the world, and you definitely can't save every child. What you can do is show a genuine interest in their education and well-being. Just like us, kids have a hard time trusting--especially someone brand new. Your persistence and perseverance will endear you to the kids, and they will reciprocate all you have given to them. Students are really observant. They may not remember what you say, but they remember everything you do. Be straight-forward with them because they'll trust you more that way. They'll then believe that you really want to help them.
   Work Ethic. Basically, if you're lazy. Don't do MTC. Laziness and slothfulness are two habits of highly ineffective teachers and master's level students. You must be willing to work as hard as possible, as much as possible, if you want to succeed. It's plain and simple, either work hard or suck at your job.
   Complaining and Whining!!! Ok, this is my second biggest pet peeve. I absolutely hate complaining and whining. If you are one who complains incessantly (and there will be many things to complain about) you probably shouldn't do MTC. Complainers are conducive to success in the classroom or productive class meetings. One thing that drives MTCers crazy is how people get off on a tangent at class meetings talking about everything that's wrong with where they work. Obviously, some things are not in the best shape, hence the need for an MTC person at that school. Then, complaining about the classes compounds the issue. If you can't adjust, be flexible, and roll with what unexpectedly comes your way, then MTC isn't the opportunity for you.
   Hopefully these words don't scare you. Instead, I hope they give you an idea about what it takes to actually do well and enjoy your time in MTC. It's not enough for a student to just pass, and I don't think it's enough for someone to just "make it through." Make the experience worthwhile, but it'll only be worthwhile if you embody the characteristics that make you a viable candidate to SUCCEED in MTC.

DK