From March 5-8, 2008, I had the privilege of attending the 154^th Illinois Education Association Representative Assembly as a Representative Assembly Assistant. The Illinois Education Association is an organization that works with pre-service educators and current educators by providing members with additional opportunities outside of the classroom. This event was history in the making, and I was thrilled to be a part of everything that would be happening. On walking into the room, I received my first knowledge on how large the actual event would be, and I was awed to see how many student, current, and retired members would be taking part in the assembly.

            My experience was unique compared to the delegates who attended because I was able to do the behind the scenes jobs. As the youngest assistant, and only student member assistant, I had the opportunity to network with both current teachers, and retired members of IEA. Together we worked as a support team to count paper (amendments and adjustments to such things as the budget), pens, pencils, and different materials the delegates would need. At times, all the counting and sorting became a challenge because of the demand at which the materials needed to be sent to the floor, but in meeting the demands, I was able to see how educators work together to get tasks completed. Although each assistant was an individual and unique, we became a team for these three days, and used the knowledge and skills each assistant had to be an effective team. I value the opportunity I had to take part in this event because it showed me the importance of working with colleges, and remaining organized even when tasks become stressful.

            My advice for those of you, who are not members of the Illinois Education Association, would be to get involved and explore your opportunities. I feel that I am more prepared as a pre-service educator, and value all that this organization has to offer.