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The Identity Of Identity : Who Am I?

Decent Essays

Throughout my life, I have been greatly influenced by many different sources such as my friends, family, and school. These social groups have shaped who I am today through the values and beliefs they have introduced to me. As Tatum says in The complexity of Identity: Who am I? “The concept of identity is a complex one, shaped by individual characteristics, family dynamics, historical factors, and social and political contexts.” (Tatum, 2000) From day one, my family has been there to teach me to be full of love, kindness, and acceptance. The way I was raised prepared me to be able to create and develop long lasting relationships with people such as my peers or my teachers. I grew up in the town of Anacortes, Washington, which is …show more content…

I grew up in a household full of compassion and big hearts, and I feel that this was extremely helpful in preparing me for life, and specifically teaching. I can use the values and beliefs I have learned from my influences in mentoring because I can come into the classroom with an open mind and the compassion to work with each and every student. No matter where you are, there will always be dominant and minoritized groups of people. This is something that is definitely seen in school environments because all people, regardless of social, economical or racial differences are required to participate in the same schooling throughout their lives. Throughout my mentoring experience, I have gained much insight into who each child is in my site placement class, and what social groups they belong to. This can be discovered in many ways, but I think the easiest way is to simply engage in conversation with the child. Although it may take time to get through to the students and get them to open up to you, it can be done through taking the time out to have meaningful conversations with them. This can be done through thoughtful and responsive listening. Engaging in what the student is saying and replying with concern or care will show each student that you are there for them, and willing to listen. As Mitchell says in Fostering Initiative in Children and Teens, “Be a helpful guide as children identify challenges, reflect on their choices, arrive at decisions, adjust

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