ACEI membership--a golden ticket.

Could membership in ACEI literally change your life? As I reflect on my past three and a half years with ACEI, I can't help but marvel over the positive impact the Association has had on the beginning of my career. I hope that within my personal ACEI story you find reason to consistently keep ACEI as a shining priority in your life.

When I was introduced to ACEI, it transformed my undergraduate experience and catapulted me to a new level of possibilities in so many areas of education. Reading the ACEI journals and interacting with the great leaders among our membership made me aware of all the research that is being done in the field of education. In addition, I have expanded my involvement in ACEI through presenting at the past three annual conferences, assisting with programming for a state conference, and leading a Branch at Florida Gulf Coast University, among other things. ACEI molded my outlook on education and the rights of children, which helped me to become a more knowledgeable student and teacher.

As you know, ACEI starts with an A because it is an association--a group of people working together with a common interest. As a member, you must interact with other members to make the most of your membership. During my years of membership, I have met many members whom I hold in the utmost respect and I have developed steadfast friendships with them. They have changed my life by recognizing and developing my leadership strengths. Many of my ACEI mentors have provided amazing opportunities for me to pursue.

The ACEI member who first got me involved was my professor at Florida Gulf Coast University. Tunde Szecsi recognized my potential when she nominated me for my position on the ACEI Executive Board. While in my role as an Executive Board member, I was offered a graduate assistantship by past ACEI President James Hoot at the University at Buffalo, the State University of New York, where I currently reside. These are powerful examples of how my friends in ACEI have opened new doors in my career.

Contrary to what some believe, you can only learn so much from books. Rather, your knowledge depends largely on the influences of those with whom you choose to surround yourself. I choose to surround myself with ACEI leaders; the great minds who are focused on the future of education and have enough experiences to fill an entire library. As Sir Isaac Newton once said, "If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." The only way that you can take full advantage of your membership in ACEI is to follow in the footsteps of the giants who pass down their golden ticket of knowledge and opportunity.

Now you can see why I am passionate about passing on my ACEI story to you in hopes that you will see its worth. I know what kind of an effect membership can have on bettering the lives of children around the world as well as your own. You are an emerging educator just as I am. This message was crafted especially for you. Take it as your golden ticket. Jump on board and find the priceless opportunities awaiting within this organization.

--Jessica Essary, Student Representative