The overall impact that attending the WAEA conference has had on me includes:

Art teaching knowledge and/or abilities

· This year, I chose to attend sessions that I felt would provide me with information and knowledge in areas that are not necessarily covered in college courses. I wanted to take advantage of sessions that focused on commonly used technology (like Artsonia and Seesaw). I also sought to choose sessions that focused on contemporary trends in education and culturally sustaining practices.

Confidence in and/or passion for teaching

· My passion for teaching grows as a I learn! I have found that attending conferences brings great excitement and inspires me to try new things. I enjoy applying what I have learned to practicum experiences and at Children’s Art Club.

Desire and commitment to be an art teacher

· I am very committed to becoming an art teacher. Connecting with other kind and passionate art educators from around the state has continually reminded me that I have made the right career choice.

Overall mood, happiness, or well-being

· I have discovered that I am happiest when I am teaching and learning. 2020 has certainly been a challenging year for teachers and students but there have been bright moments and attending this conference was certainly one of those moments for me. I have missed getting to observe and assist experienced teachers in their classrooms and teach Children’s Art Club in-person. While I know that we all wish that we could have a “normal” conference experience, I am grateful for the resources and sessions that were put together. Learning from other art teachers reminds me that I am supported and part of a larger Art Ed. Community.

Relationships with other art ed students or networking with other art ed professionals

· I wish that we would have been able to “attend” the conference on the weekend that it was hosted. I learned so much on my own but would have loved to have joined Q&A sessions and listen to speakers live.