Dr. Wilder was the Director of Research and Development for Nickelodeon's massively successful children's program Blue's Clues, the creative force behind Super Why! and is Chief Content Officer for Speakaboos.
I wanted to attend her lecture mostly because I am convinced that I would have been a perfect host for Blue's Clues and thought I might chat her up about upcoming children's programs in need of someone with my unique talents (Alas, I never got the opportunity).
But her words were exactly the words I needed to hear as I work on reclaiming optimism. She spoke of her personal mission statement and how her journey through college as a research assistant with a knack for listening to children led to incredible opportunities. Dr. Wilder highlighted the importance of reinventing one's self which can mean making necessary adjustments to a personal mission statement.
And it hit me. That is what I am struggling with lately, reinventing my personal mission statement. My Ph.D is now within reach--anticipated date of graduation is May 2014--and although I will definitely continue teaching I also wonder what's next?
I certainly have the desire to reach a larger audience of children and am actually toying with the idea of simply videotaping my lessons and posting them on YouTube for children to watch.
Someday I would love to use my background and experience in literacy research, child development, teaching and American Sign Language to host a children's program (universe, are you listening?).
Dr. Wilder said more than once, "It is your journey (thus far) that makes each of you uniquely you". But it's the future I am curious about.
So many possibilities. It's daunting.
What makes you "uniquely you"?
4 comments:
http://www.apple.com/education/itunes-u/
The universe is listening Gary! You're on the right track. Just keep plugging along. It will happen and soon.
What we think and what we do about what we think is what makes us uniquely us. Keep at it... you'll find your new path right in front of you.
Owen Tales - Thanks for the link. So many possibilities nowadays.
Patti - xo I am like the little engine that could. I know I can....
Pauline - I am confident that things will unfold and present themselves as needed. The key to to be prepared when opportunity arises.
To All - I hope you are well and safe after Sandy. My thoughts are will you.
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