It seems like members of MTC are asked this question all the time. We are asked by interested applicants, colleagues at our respective schools, and even by other members of MTC as we go through the program. I must say that I haven't really thought about my answer to this question. When presented with this question, I don't respond with my life philosophy. My answer to this question is probably a little more simplistic than I think it should be. That has probably served me well, because I don't allow myself to be inundated with the stresses of living up to my initial reasons for joining MTC.
Why Should Someone Join?
Someone should join MTC because they feel like they absolutely have something special to offer a child. I'm not talking about coming to Mississippi to be a savior. Nor, am I talking about treating the kids like they are charity cases. Joining MTC should be about offering a new perspective to your students. A perspective that gives them a sense of education, work ethic, and genuine care. I did not join to be known as the teacher/coach who saved some kids from throwing their lives away. I dare not ever patronize my students or players in that way. If anything, someone should join to impart that which was imparted to them in their middle school and high school years. The masters coursework is also a reason someone should join. The challenge of being a strong teacher and a strong student at the same time is one that should be respected. MTC is a continual process of teaching and learning. A great MTCer is one who is very reflective. One who can manage relationships, stress, and transition. Someone should join MTC because they are a cut above the rest, and they can operate at the highest level consistently.
Why Should Someone Not Join?
Don't join MTC to say that you took a bunch of poor, lazy kids and made them scholars. If anyone thinks that they are above reproach on any level, then they shouldn't join either. If you are someone who compartmentalizes every success and failure, then MTC may not be the program for you. No failure can get you too low, and no success can get you too high. Even kilned and level-headed people seem to do the best in this program. Someone should not join if they cannot take criticism--constructive and destructive. I don't want to deter anyone from applying. If anyone feels like they are qualified, then please apply. Just know that MTC is not a cake walk; but MTC also isn't the hardest thing in the world.
I joined MTC because I knew that I had something to offer. I come from a family of educators, so I've always understood the value of education (from the standpoint of a teacher). Moreover, I knew that I could offer even more through coaching. I knew that through this program, I could get closer to the educational attainment that I seek, and have a chance to affect lots of amazing kids. Every MTCer will give a different answer, but we all probably have some of the same core values. I'm so glad that I'm in MTC. I appreciate the opportunity, and as a future applicant, someone should go into the application process with that same appreciation. The opportunity is priceless.....
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