How To Answer: Why Did You Decide To Become A Teacher?

Teaching remains one of the most vital professions in our society. Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future of children and the community at large.

During your interview, you will likely encounter the question, “Why did you decide to become a teacher?” The most successful candidates will combine their motivations into a succinct and engaging response.

This article will guide you on how to answer this question authentically while also showcasing your professional competencies.

Key Takeaways:

• Interviewers are eager to gauge your passion for teaching, your ability to articulate your skills, and how your experiences qualify you for the role, all while assessing if you are a good cultural fit.

• Your answer should be sincere and framed as a personal narrative.

• Keep your response positive, steering clear of any negativity.

How to Answer Why Did You Become a Teacher

1. Be honest with your answer. Job interviewers are skilled at detecting authenticity, and a disingenuous response may reflect poorly on you. The interviewer will want assurance that you are committed to a career that demands a high degree of personal investment.

   However, you don’t need to disclose everything; a degree of discretion is wise. Highlighting perks of the job, like long holidays, as your main motivation could be detrimental. Focus on an honest answer that emphasizes the educational role you aspire to fulfill.

   Start by being truthful with yourself. Identify a passion or inspiration that draws you to the teaching profession. This core motivation will help convey your dedication to the interviewer.

2. Frame your reason as a personal story. Storytelling is an essential communication skill in education and an opportunity to distinguish yourself from other candidates. A well-chosen story can leave a lasting impression on the interviewer.

3. Your answer should center on the fundamental role of education. Discuss your desire to help others learn, how a mentor inspired you, or how teaching aligns with your natural inclinations.

   Whatever your reason, ensure it demonstrates a clear understanding of a teacher’s importance and responsibilities. Explore the key skills of a teacher and see if you can weave them into your answer.

4. Answer with positivity and grace. Even on challenging days, teachers must remain approachable. Exhibit a welcoming demeanor during your interview, akin to how you would engage with students in a classroom.

Examples Of Good Answers to Why Did You Decide To Be a Teacher

• Had a Good Teacher Example Answer

  “When I moved to a new town in the middle of fourth grade, I struggled to adapt. My teacher invested extra time to ensure I was adjusting well. She was not only concerned about my academics but also checked in on my social integration and understanding of the new environment.

  I felt isolated, and her support gave me the confidence to connect with new friends and keep up with my studies. This experience has stayed with me and inspires me to offer the same support to others.”

  Why this works:
  This response effectively demonstrates the applicant’s understanding of the common challenges faced by new students and emphasizes the multifaceted role of a teacher. A personal story like this can differentiate you from other applicants.

• Enjoy Teaching Example Answer

  “In high school, I needed community service credits to graduate, so I volunteered at an after-school program for middle school students needing homework assistance. I found that I easily connected with the kids, had a knack for simplifying complex problems, and thoroughly enjoyed our humorous interactions. It made me realize, ‘Why not turn this passion into a career?’”

  Why this works:
  This answer highlights the applicant’s teaching skills and their genuine interest in working with children. It also indicates a conscious decision to pursue a teaching career, underscoring an innate talent for education.

• Passionate About Subject Example Answer

  “After graduating as an English major, I worked as a journalist for an education magazine. While there, I discovered my excitement for teaching others about journalism, prompting me to become a substitute teacher at a local school. I found that my passion for writing fueled my energy to teach others.”

  Why this works:
  This response combines the applicant’s passion for their subject with their enthusiasm for teaching. Some of the best educators possess an equal love for both what they teach and how they teach, suggesting strong potential.

Tips For Giving A Good Answer

• Be positive. An interviewer’s biggest concern may arise if you exhibit cynicism or pessimism, especially in a field that demands empathy and selflessness. While acknowledging the profession’s challenges is essential, framing them positively with a “can-do” attitude will enhance your interview impact.

• Be concise. A long-winded, rambling answer risks seeming unprepared. However, rushing your words may also raise concerns. Take your time, breathe, and be deliberate with your language. Concise communication is a key teaching skill, making this a valuable opportunity to showcase that ability.

• Use personal experience. Incorporating personal anecdotes can help create a unique answer that distinguishes you from other candidates. A personal experience may also reveal moments of inspiration that led you to choose teaching as a career.

• Remember the job description. Align your skills with the requirements detailed in the job description. Rather than merely reiterating your resume, discuss how your skills have evolved and relate to your interest in teaching. Skills are often developed through genuine interest.

• Research the school. Understanding the unique characteristics of the school where you are applying can provide valuable context. Tailoring your response to highlight how your experiences align with the school’s mission or demographics can strengthen your overall answer.

• Practice your answer. Prior to your interview, rehearse your response, preferably with someone who can provide constructive feedback, like a friend or family member. If that’s not possible, practice in front of a mirror or record yourself to refine your delivery. Familiarizing yourself with your answer will help ensure a smooth response during the interview.

What Not to Say When Explaining Why You Chose to Become a Teacher

• Anything negative. Negative responses can raise red flags for interviewers. If you tend to complain or focus on the downsides, it’ll signal that you might be a difficult coworker in a challenging profession.

• Focusing on money or self-serving gains. Even if attractive wages and vacation time are appealing aspects of the profession, citing these as primary motivations will not resonate well. Interviewers seek answers that reflect a commitment to the role beyond personal interests.

• Unrelated anecdotes. Avoid sharing stories about education that don’t directly pertain to your experience. Stay relevant and keep your responses concise.

Possible Follow-Up Questions to Prepare For

“Why did you decide to become a teacher?” often leads to additional questions such as:

• How do you plan to manage your classroom?

• How will you address students with diverse learning styles?

• Where do you see yourself in five years?

• What do you consider to be the greatest challenge for a teacher?

• How do you plan to collaborate with other faculty members?

• What is your teaching philosophy?

• What do you love most about teaching?

• Why do you want to work at this school/district?

Preparing for potential follow-up questions is beneficial. If possible, connect your answers with a central theme. For instance, if fostering curiosity and creativity is your passion, ensure your responses reinforce this theme. This will help you stand out, as the interviewer will be able to summarize your interview experience coherently.

Why You Want To Be a Teacher FAQ

1. What are some reasons to become a teacher?

   Reasons to consider a career in teaching include:

   • A desire to make a positive impact on children’s lives.

   • A passion for your specific subject area.

   • A love for and/or talent in teaching others.

   • An interest in a dynamic, people-oriented career.

2. How do you answer, “Why do you want to be a teacher?”

   Address the question, “Why do you want to be a teacher?” by sharing a personal anecdote that underscores your motivation.

   Whether a teacher significantly impacted your life or you had an experience that revealed your affinity for working with children, using an anecdote is a compelling way to communicate your passion for teaching.

References

1. American University School of Education – How to Become a Teacher: Steps, Requirements, and Tips

2. California State University Chico – 10 Reasons to Teach

3. Western Governors University – Why Become a Teacher?

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.