Let's start this shindig...

I think I would cover some background information before I really get started here.

In December 2009, I graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor's in History. So, what does that mean? Absolutely nothing. What is a girl to do with a history degree?

Teach.

Okay, so I can teach with this history degree. Now, I just need a teaching certificate. More money, more classes, more COLLEGE. >.<

So right now, I am three classes into a seven class educator program. This program also requires three state tests: FTCE Subject Area (mine being History, or Social Sciences), FTCE General Knowledge (Reading, Math, English Language Skills), and the FTCE Professional Educator (the psychology and methodology of teaching). As of right now, I have taken and thankfully passed the Subject Area and General Knowledge. This summer, I am taking two classes and a Emergency Medical Technician Certification Program (so I can get a job to save money for my ultimate goal).

Now for the important part: Alaska. For some reason, I really want to teach in Alaska. In the beginning, I knew I wanted to teach somewhere besides Florida. My first thought was to join the Department of Defense Education Activity and travel to Italy, Germany, or some other country to teach on military bases. While that seemed like a good idea, I realized that before doing that, I should have a teeny bit of teaching experience. Alaska seemed like the perfect place to start my career as a teacher. The state is beautiful! The nature, the wildlife, everything just seems irresistible! I am so excited about going to Alaska, even though I am broke. All I know is that I will get there.

Certification in Alaska is pretty straightforward. Once I complete my educator program, I am eligible for a Initial Tier I certificate that can last up to three years. To obtain a Tier II certificate, I need to complete 6 recency credits. These are basically two college classes on Alaskan History and Culture. Fortunately, this does not sound too difficult.

So, what is the point of this blog? To chronicle my process of getting to Alaska. Once I actually get to Alaska, I will change the title of my blog to something more appropriate, such as Adventures in Alaska. I plan on having plenty of adventures involving bears, moose (MEESE), and snowmobiles.