I was surprised to learn recently that there is curerntly a shortage of teachers in the United States, and that that a similar trend can be spotted in the UK, too. The reason, I'm surprised is because teaching is undoubtedly one of the most fulfilling jobs I can think of - and that's coming from someone with 20 years teaching experience!

So, in this article, I'm going to do my bit for the teaching industry and persuade you to become a teacher and make the education industry slightly better off because of it!

Reason 1 - Student Successes

Every teacher that I've spoken to in the past is motivated by student successes. I remember clearly one day a friend of mine, also a teacher, almost passing out with excitement when she saw one of her students from 20 years ago being interviewed on the television. He was a raving success story and she felt that she played her part, albeit a small one, in what made him who he was at that point in time. Witnessing this struck a major chord with me.

Reason 2 - Learning more about your Subject

The best way to learn a subject is to teach it, and if you're passionate about a certain subject then there's one sure fire way to be the best you can at that subject - teach someone else about it!

When you teach a class of eager minded youngsters you'll be challenged with thought provoking questions that perhaps you haven't even though of and that prompts you to go and further your research in the field that you're teaching in. There's nothing like having a discussion about a topic that you're really fascinated by.

Reason 3 - Having a Laugh

Honestly, the laughs I've had with my students over the years have been so much fun. If you have an ounce of a sense of humour then you can't help but laugh at some of the jokes these youngsters come up with! Sure, there'll be times where you just can't stand to hear any more jokes - but at that point in time you'll probably want to lighten up or get another job!

Reason 4 - Autonomy

This is a big one. Your classroom is your classroom - "you the boss!". You don't have to answer to an annoying boss and the way you structure your lessons and teaching is entirely up to you. Of course, you have to follow the curriculum to a certain degree, but beyond that it's all about being as creative and engaging as you possible can with your class of students. And if you think that having a creative style of teaching goes unnoticed then think again. If youngsters feel like they can connect with your style of teaching then you'll have a much easier job of helping them to actually learn something that they can use when they get into the outer world!

Reason 5 - Job Security

Teaching is one of those jobs where you are highly unlikely to get laid off. In many areas around the world, there is a lack of capable teachers and as the rule of supply and demand dictates, your job security improves as does your rate of pay.

So, if you're still on the fence about becoming a teacher, let me finally remind you of the crazy amounts of holidays that teachers are entitled to! If you have children who are at school themselves, this means that you can spend your hard earned holiday with them - now isn't that worth pursuing?