Elizabeth Usher
Beyond the Quote: What Educators Truly Do
I recently told my high school students that beginning a speech with a quote is tacky and cliche. When I found this one, however, I couldn’t pass up the chance to share it. In his 1903 play, The Man and Superman, Barnard Shaw wrote, “Those who can, do. Those who can’t, teach.” This is nonsense, of course, but it still begs the question, what do educators do?
To start, we teach. And by teaching, we join a grand, eclectic list of greats. Albert Einstein and Andy Griffiths, Zitkala Sa and Sandra Cisneros, W.E.B DuBois and Bill Nye, the list is long and glorious. As educators, we fight for social justice. We have the opportunity to foster empathy, equity, and advocacy for the self and others. We ask the hard questions that expose the roots of oppression in hopes of growing something new. And we become community builders as we bring people together in pursuit of knowledge. Remember that everyone is your neighbor. Don’t be fooled by the idea that you have to shoulder all of this work on your own.
But most of all, those truly passionate about education know it’s about more than an occupation. Einstein and many others started out as teachers, but even as their careers expanded beyond the classroom, they never stopped educating. It’s not so much about a paycheck, as it’s a mission and purpose of the soul. It’s a faith in knowledge and humanity that, for better or worse, you carry with you everywhere.
So, regardless of whether you find yourself as a teacher, a small business owner, or beyond, these skills will always be yours. Because those who can, teach. Wherever they go.
As educators, we fight for social justice. We have the opportunity to foster empathy, equity, and advocacy for the self and others. We ask the hard questions that expose the roots of oppression in hopes of growing something new. Elizabeth Usher, 2024 School of Education Graduate
We had a chance to sit down with Elizabeth before graduation. See what she had to say about her experience at Loyola.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you found yourself teaching?
Yes, so I grew up in what you could call an education-oriented family. My mom's a teacher, and several other family members are as well. While it was not something I consciously knew I wanted to do, being surrounded by education influenced me. I always enjoyed school, especially English, and my teachers played a significant role in my life. So, naturally, I gravitated towards becoming an educator. Loyola's solid and unique education program was a major draw for me; it seemed like the perfect place to pursue my passion for teaching.
What about Loyola's education program stood out to you during your research for an undergrad program?
Loyola's reputation for its rigorous yet enriching program caught my attention. I heard many positive things about the hands-on opportunities, especially with fieldwork and student teaching. Even though my experience was impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, Loyola made sure to provide the best possible alternatives and support to catch us up on missed opportunities.
You mentioned your mother also attended Loyola's School of Education. Can you share more about her experience and how it influenced you?
Yes, my mother transitioned from a nursing major to education during her junior year at Loyola and has been working in education ever since. She has had various roles, primarily working with special education students, which has given me insight into the field and further reinforced my interest in teaching.
Looking back at your time in Loyola, what pivotal moment prepared you for your next teaching journey?
Being part of a close-knit cohort within the School of Education was invaluable. Engaging with like-minded peers, both inside and outside of class, provided a supportive environment crucial for navigating the challenges of becoming an educator. Additionally, my senior year of student teaching solidified my passion for teaching and gave me a real-world glimpse into what to expect.
One standout aspect of my time with the School of Education was the emphasis on understanding the history of education in America, including its darker aspects related to oppression and injustice. My courses encouraged open discussions about social justice, which is vital for educators working in diverse urban environments like Chicago Public Schools. This awareness and preparedness are invaluable for making a positive impact in students' lives.
Loyola School of Education students are placed within k-12 classrooms right from the start, graduating with the equivalent of a year of full-time teaching experience.
We become community builders as we bring people together in pursuit of knowledge. Elizabeth Usher, 2024 School of Education
What will you miss most about Loyola and School of Education?
I will miss Loyola's campus, especially the sense of community and the serene environment by the lake. The library holds many memories of studying and reflection. More importantly, the camaraderie among peers and the vibrant college atmosphere will be hard to leave behind.
What advice do you have for current students at Loyola?
Trust your instincts and passion for teaching, despite any discouragement you may encounter. Teaching is a challenging yet rewarding profession, and staying true to your calling is crucial. Additionally, seek out resources and support systems like Get the Facts Out to debunk misconceptions and stay informed about the realities of the teaching profession.
What is next for you after graduation?
I'll be seeking secondary English teaching positions. Loyola has equipped me well for urban teaching, and I am excited to apply my skills in such a diverse and dynamic environment. Loyola's focus on preparing teachers for urban settings aligns with my interests and goals and might find myself teaching within Chicago Public Schools.
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Congratulations to the 2024 graduates of the School of Education!
To start, we teach. And by teaching, we join a grand, eclectic list of greats. Albert Einstein and Andy Griffiths, Zitkala Sa and Sandra Cisneros, W.E.B DuBois and Bill Nye, the list is long and glorious. As educators, we fight for social justice. We have the opportunity to foster empathy, equity, and advocacy for the self and others. We ask the hard questions that expose the roots of oppression in hopes of growing something new. And we become community builders as we bring people together in pursuit of knowledge. Remember that everyone is your neighbor. Don’t be fooled by the idea that you have to shoulder all of this work on your own.
But most of all, those truly passionate about education know it’s about more than an occupation. Einstein and many others started out as teachers, but even as their careers expanded beyond the classroom, they never stopped educating. It’s not so much about a paycheck, as it’s a mission and purpose of the soul. It’s a faith in knowledge and humanity that, for better or worse, you carry with you everywhere.
So, regardless of whether you find yourself as a teacher, a small business owner, or beyond, these skills will always be yours. Because those who can, teach. Wherever they go.
We had a chance to sit down with Elizabeth before graduation. See what she had to say about her experience at Loyola.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you found yourself teaching?
Yes, so I grew up in what you could call an education-oriented family. My mom's a teacher, and several other family members are as well. While it was not something I consciously knew I wanted to do, being surrounded by education influenced me. I always enjoyed school, especially English, and my teachers played a significant role in my life. So, naturally, I gravitated towards becoming an educator. Loyola's solid and unique education program was a major draw for me; it seemed like the perfect place to pursue my passion for teaching.
What about Loyola's education program stood out to you during your research for an undergrad program?
Loyola's reputation for its rigorous yet enriching program caught my attention. I heard many positive things about the hands-on opportunities, especially with fieldwork and student teaching. Even though my experience was impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, Loyola made sure to provide the best possible alternatives and support to catch us up on missed opportunities.
You mentioned your mother also attended Loyola's School of Education. Can you share more about her experience and how it influenced you?
Yes, my mother transitioned from a nursing major to education during her junior year at Loyola and has been working in education ever since. She has had various roles, primarily working with special education students, which has given me insight into the field and further reinforced my interest in teaching.
Looking back at your time in Loyola, what pivotal moment prepared you for your next teaching journey?
Being part of a close-knit cohort within the School of Education was invaluable. Engaging with like-minded peers, both inside and outside of class, provided a supportive environment crucial for navigating the challenges of becoming an educator. Additionally, my senior year of student teaching solidified my passion for teaching and gave me a real-world glimpse into what to expect.
One standout aspect of my time with the School of Education was the emphasis on understanding the history of education in America, including its darker aspects related to oppression and injustice. My courses encouraged open discussions about social justice, which is vital for educators working in diverse urban environments like Chicago Public Schools. This awareness and preparedness are invaluable for making a positive impact in students' lives.
What will you miss most about Loyola and School of Education?
I will miss Loyola's campus, especially the sense of community and the serene environment by the lake. The library holds many memories of studying and reflection. More importantly, the camaraderie among peers and the vibrant college atmosphere will be hard to leave behind.
What advice do you have for current students at Loyola?
Trust your instincts and passion for teaching, despite any discouragement you may encounter. Teaching is a challenging yet rewarding profession, and staying true to your calling is crucial. Additionally, seek out resources and support systems like Get the Facts Out to debunk misconceptions and stay informed about the realities of the teaching profession.
What is next for you after graduation?
I'll be seeking secondary English teaching positions. Loyola has equipped me well for urban teaching, and I am excited to apply my skills in such a diverse and dynamic environment. Loyola's focus on preparing teachers for urban settings aligns with my interests and goals and might find myself teaching within Chicago Public Schools.