In this blog post, I’ll focus on my motivation for majoring in special education, my academic and career plans, and a brief introduction about myself.
Motivation for Pursuing This Field
I vividly remember my first visit to a welfare facility for people with disabilities, where I volunteered alongside my parents, who regularly engage in volunteer work as part of their daily lives. Among the children with disabilities growing up in circumstances less favorable than my own, I discovered smiles and happiness that were even brighter than those of the general public. Seeing them remain positive in all situations and become friends with those facing greater challenges than themselves made me feel infinitely small. From that moment on, I resolved to live a life dedicated to others rather than myself—a life devoted to marginalized children, to those living in challenging circumstances, and to contributing to the local community. This is why I aspire to become an educator, and since I believe special education is where the true meaning of education comes to life, I have applied to your department. I find the profession of a special education teacher to be truly compelling. I view special education not as knowledge-centered education, but as life-centered education—a process of studying and learning together with children with disabilities as they grow up, adapting to society, and discovering the roles they will play within it. With a heart that sincerely cherishes and loves children with disabilities, I aspire to become a good teacher for them. Now, I wish to fulfill my dream at your university.
Areas of Interest and Research Plan
Being a special education teacher is a truly fascinating profession. There are many opportunities to freely express one’s own ideas and abilities. However, since special education teachers must teach all subjects, understand all types of disabilities, and be well-rounded in all areas—including psychological techniques, counseling skills, and curriculum management—they must dedicate significant time to studying these subjects. Therefore, if I am admitted to your university, I plan to focus first and foremost on my major studies. I will choose Elementary Special Education as my major and pursue my studies and practicums with passion. I will also select Educational Studies as my minor to acquire the qualifications necessary to work as a special education teacher. Since South Korea is still heavily influenced by American special education, I will read many books in their original English to gain a solid understanding of educational theory. Although I may still have much to learn, I will study my field even more diligently so that I can stand at the forefront of education in my area of expertise.
Plans After Graduation
I want to become a true special education teacher who sincerely cares for children with disabilities. I believe that professionalism is the most important quality for a special education teacher. I must acquire a wide range of knowledge—from understanding students with disabilities to the curriculum and teaching methods—in order to help these children. Therefore, I will prepare for the teacher certification exam to become a highly qualified special education teacher. I will not be merely a teacher focused on academics; I will be a teacher who fosters communication and emotional connection with students—one with whom students feel comfortable sharing their worries, happy moments, and challenges, and with whom they can even shed a tear. I aim to be a teacher who is recognized not only for academic achievement but also by the students themselves. I will draw strength day by day from the laughter and enthusiasm of the students in my class, and with that strength, I will become an outstanding teacher through self-reflection, introspection, and a passion for my field of study.
Self-Introduction
I have a very cheerful and proactive personality. When meeting people, I strive to see the positive rather than the negative, and I enjoy meeting and socializing with a wide variety of people. Since children with disabilities require a tremendous amount of time and effort to achieve even the smallest progress, I believe patience and the ability to wait are essential qualities for a special education teacher. Therefore, I strive to cultivate the perseverance to never give up on children with physical challenges and to wait patiently for them, as well as the ability to find joy in even the smallest changes. My life motto is “No gain without pain.” Nothing in this world can be achieved without effort. Believing that only those who work hard can experience the true joy of life, I strive to do my best in whatever tasks are assigned to me. Since time that has passed cannot be reversed, I do my very best to avoid mistakes and have no regrets in the tasks entrusted to me. Although my friends sometimes tease me, saying, “If you take away your diligence and stamina, you’re just a corpse,” I take pride in my constant efforts and believe that physical stamina is crucial for success, so I don’t mind this teasing all that much.
