What are my goals? Where do I see myself in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years? All of these questions are often asked during interviews and even in day to day conversations. It hasn’t been until I started this program that I realized I need to not just answer these questions, but really have a good sense of what those answers mean for me and how I will reach my goals for those answers. For me the answer to these questions start now, with moving to an assistant principal, a principal or principal intern, and earning my doctorate. 

​

I think the best way to answer those questions of where I see myself in so many years is to think about the end goal I wish to accomplish and the steps I need to take to reach that goal. As an educator I have always dreamed of being a principal. With that being said, I need to lay out steps to reach that goal.

​

First, many people that have had the position I was fortunate to obtain have gone on to do a variety of things, including becoming a principal. Although I would love to become a principal shortly after this job, in the short time I have had this position I can see that I need to learn and grow much more. The best next logical step for me would be to move into a role similar to or becoming an assistant principal. With this type of position, I am still able to learn and lead without all of the responsibility and added stress that comes with becoming a principal. This opportunity will also allow me the chance to see if becoming a principal really is something I wish to pursue. If I wish to become a principal, I must earn my certification from the state of Massachusetts. This is a challenge, but necessary.  

​

The second step is to become a principal or a principal intern. At this point in achieving my goal, I will have achieved my goal or at least be the last step towards becoming a principal. In order to obtain this position I know that there are different certifications I have to earn and in most cases a type of study or thesis I must conduct as well. I need to take that time very seriously because that is when I will be put to the ultimate test and find out if I actually have the ability, drive, desire, and skills to become a principal. Accompanying the third step is eventually going to earn my doctorate. I know that this step may not be necessary, but it is something I want to do to be the best principal I can be. My school has a partnership with Boston College called the Lynch Leadership Academy which would allow me the chance to learn more on what it means to be a principal. 

​

After many years of schooling, I realize that there is always more to be learned and always more ways to grow. My third step towards my goal is to go back to school again to obtain my doctorate. This has always been something that has been on my mind since I began my undergraduate education. I know that it may not be necessary to obtain a doctorate to become a principal, but I do believe it will give me more tools to be a better leader and educator in the school. I have done research into different doctoral programs and have spoken with friends and colleagues on what to look for in a great program. I looked into the program through MSU and I know that they have a great program and can offer me the challenge I am looking for to push my learning and growth.  Another program I looked into is through Harvard University. I have spoken with a friend that is completing this program and he spoke very highly of the program. It is a hands-on style of program that allows for a lot of research and study to be done inside a school.

​

The next 5 years are going to be extremely important for me to figure out what more I need to do to achieve my goal. I have been given the opportunity to learn so much from so many people over the course of my education and my career. Now I am in a position where I can really begin to learn even more about myself and what it takes to achieve my goal.