Sarah Winter - Art Teacher

People or experiences that led me to where I am

The art room in high school was my refuge; it was the only place where I felt understood; I was inspired by one art teacher who was fun, seemed happy and fulfilled, and took an individual interest in his students.

How I got into this field

After high school I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do; I waited tables. I took some community college classes because I was bored. In one class I had to do an I-Search paper exploring something of interest to me. I did the paper on being an art teacher and explored whether this was the direction for me. I realized that I would only be happy doing art-related work. I then went to EMU for my art degree.

What I like most about my work

I especially like the enthusiasm of the students. I like that I get to think about art every day.

Volunteer or other experiences you might check out to learn about my field

Camp counselor for experience with kids and because art is usually part of a camp program; Performance Network for experience with sets and design; Ann Arbor Art Center.

Challenges and exciting changes I see in my field in the near future

Challenge: threats to funding due to the economy. Exciting changes: Technology is opening new avenues for creativity/expression.

The kinds of training and education needed to keep up in my field

Art conferences; reading art-related material; continuing with art classes; making your own art.

Other career fields where my skills could be put to use

Teach other courses in a community setting; be an artist; write about art history.

How my job impacts my family life

Works well. My son and I have the same schedules; a few days a week I do some after-school work; sometimes I do preparation work at home but it doesn’t feel like work because it’s fun.