<p>Whoa! Where do I begin?!?! </p>
<p>So I decided to leave the forum after PotCM’s initial response to my post. I felt (and my suspicions have been confirmed) that trying to engage in dialogue with PotCM was equivalent to beating a dead horse. I am responding due to the amount of tension that resulted from my post, for which I do apologize. </p>
<p>In my defense, my comment which has been quoted on more than one occasion (“Not to sound bitter or angry or cocky but I am the epitome of what TFA says they want”) was fueled by raw emotion (look at the date and time it was posted). Perhaps, that part was better left unsaid. Perhaps “epitome” was too strong a word, but I stand by my assertion that I possess the characteristics that TFA says they want in corp members. In reference to PotCM’s comment about being rejected because of the way I presented myself, that comment was offensive for obvious reasons. However, perhaps there WAS a problem with the way I presented myself. Perhaps I demonstrated TOO MUCH leadership and perseverance in the face of challenges… too much critical thinking ability, respect for other people’s backgrounds, and motivational skills… Too much commitment to their stated mission. So yes, maybe the way I presented myself could have been the problem as it could have been viewed as a threat to the organization. </p>
<p>I am currently in a sociology doctoral program that I decided to leave because of my commitment to teaching underprivileged populations (so TFA was not a way for me to get into a doctoral program). In reference to PotCM’s suggestion that the rejection could have been due to the ways in which my undergraduate and graduate studies relate to each other and how they can be used in the classroom. Well, for undergrad, I had a double major in Sociology and Black and Puerto Rican Studies. In my graduate studies, I have explored the challenges facing Latina/o college students. Obviously, my undergrad and grad work are closely related to each other and they also relate to the students that TFA targets. Perhaps, TFA wanted more school subject type of courses (like Math or Science) and maybe what I had was insufficient. But then again, I thought that those were things that TFA looked at after they accepted or rejected an applicant. As everyone can tell by my choice of majors, I’m a sociologist by training, which means that when patterns emerge (such as particular types of people getting rejected- although this forum hardly qualifies as real research), I explore structural issues that may explain said phenomenon. This is why I said that I questioned (and still do question) the integrity of the organization. When I applied to TFA, I was fully aware of the critiques floating out in cyberspace that questioned the integrity of the organization. I decided to see for myself before passing judgment. But that is simply my opinion and I respect those who still believe in the organization and more importantly, are committed to working to minimize the achievement gap. I applaud their efforts and wish we had more people working towards this common goal. </p>
<p>In response to PotCM’s comment that “the way we interpret written words in our online world can be misinterpreted so if you believe I was trying to sound a way, I was not.” I believe that if someone realizes that something they say or write can be misinterpreted, then, if they really care about not offending others, they have a responsibility to take the time to evaluate what is being put out there. PotCM, you have not done that and that gives me cause for concern as teachers often communicate with parents in writing. Like TFAOldster mentioned, you need to (or rather, you should) stop being so quick to pass judgment on others and refrain from insulting and condescending remarks. You should also learn to listen to others because there is always a lesson to be learned. This skill (should you decide to refine it) will be invaluable as a TFA corp member. Listen to, not only TFA corps members and administrators but also to parents, children, and other veteran (non-TFA) teachers, as they are all treasure chests of information. Teachers are known for not reinventing the wheel. You can’t do that without learning to listen. </p>
<p>Finally, to TFAOldster who went above and beyond in defending an anonymous poster, I thank you! I agree with everything you have said and unfortunately, believe it is falling on deaf ears.</p>