Resources

When school districts are trying to decide between two equally qualified candidates for a teaching position, the candidate with more experience will probably have the advantage. But that's not the only reason to look for experience beyond your program fieldwork requirements. Candidates who can draw on real experiences with children get more out of their teacher education courses, too. You can gain career-related experience though summer jobs, internships, and volunteer work. Whether the position is full-time or part-time, or paid or unpaid, is less important than the extent to which the position offers you a chance to develop your knowledge, skills, and strengths, and to build your professional network.