Jean L. Heinsohn

heinsohnj@tuckahoe.lhric.org

11^th/12^th Grade Social Studies

US History, Government, and Economics Courses

 

I was born at North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, New York in 1974.  In 1979, our family moved from Queens County, New York to New Hyde Park on Long Island.  My family has lived in the same house on Oxford Street ever since. In 1992, I graduated from Herricks High School.  I received my Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from SUNY Potsdam in 1996 and in 1999 I received a Masters of Science in Secondary Social Studies with honors.

 

Upon leaving Potsdam in the spring of 1996 I left with a diploma and a dream.  My dream was to make an impact.  Although I was not sure how I would make my mark, I really wanted my career and life to have meaning.  My desire was not driven by wealth and prestige (although I would not mind either),  but to actually embark on a career that would be both mentally stimulating and that would have a positive impact on other people’s lives.

 

Shortly after graduation, I accepted a position at PaineWebber in the College and University Relations Department.  The Human Resources Division created this department to give the company a visible presence on campus through career fairs, clubs and other school sponsored events.  My experience as a College Recruiting Assistant not only increased my communication and management skills, it also gave me the opportunity to broaden my responsibilities by implementing a diverse number of programs. I have worked extensively with students on a wide variety of tasks ranging from obtaining summer internships to advising on career paths and securing permanent positions upon graduation.  We also ran several informational seminars for our summer interns on topics such as resume writing and communication skills.  As it turned out, the most rewarding part of my job was the bonds that I formed with many of these students.  It was these interactions which sparked my interest in teaching as a career. 

 

Ironically, it was my time spent out of the classroom that made me understand how much I enjoyed being in a classroom.  Looking back now on my high school and college years, I realize it was my teachers who had the most profound impact on my life.  After all, it was past teachers who encouraged me to be active in class as well as out, and to always push myself until I knew I was doing my best.  If I could have this type of positive impact on my students’ lives, I would be complete in my professional goals.