Advice from past Cohorts

This week I had the pleasure of contacting past and current PSU AgEd student teachers to hear their advice to the question "What should you look for in a cooperating teacher and center?". I received valuble advice from Karlie Wright, Matt Snyder, and Megan Keller that all fit together to have different perspectives. Karlie said to "Choose a cooperating teacher that can be "real" with you". Whenever a lesson doesn't go as planned they will give constructive feedback and not "fluffy" words. Karlie also said to consider the location of the school and if it "Is feasible to live there? Can you afford the cost of living?" which I felt was very wise advice to consider. Matt responded with "Selecting someone you are comfortable with and can talk to easily with". This may seem obvious to some but is a very good piece of advice that could be easily overlooked. Finally, Megan commented that "You need someone that can give you constructive feedback, without expecting you to teach exactly like them". This is something that I had not previously considered however I feel that this will be a crucial attribute I consider when selecting my own cooperating teacher and center. I truly appreciated everyone taking time out of their busy schedules to give me advice as I embark on my adventure of selecting a cooperating teacher and center!