My name is Robert Aiello and I was born in Summit, New Jersey. Working for an oil company, my father was transferred often, so I lived in Connecticut and then outside Chicago. In fifth grade, I moved to Houston, where I completed middle and high school. I then attended the University of Texas at Austin receiving a BA in Sociology with a minor in Psychology.
Before college, I would say that my only experience with technology was watching “Knight Rider” on our television. Back when I started college, Apple had just introduced the Macintosh and I was lucky enough to purchase one through the University. My introduction to computers had begun. I purchased my first PC when the Mac died and I have been a PC user ever since, both for personal use and in most of my work life. As a caterer, I used a PC to plan meals and seating arrangements. Working for the IRS, I used a computer to create tax files. As a Group Home Coordinator for adults with mental retardation, I created electronic case files. Then, as a Fitness Instructor, I created workout programs and class schedules using a PC. In my most recent career working for Federal Express, I used my hand-held Powerpad to help me route and deliver packages. Although I have had a lot of very different careers, the one unifying thread has been the use of computers. I currently use Microsoft Office 2007 on the PC.
The mission statement of the CSUSM/COE was definitely a factor in choosing CSU for my teaching credential. As a gay man in his forties I have a view of the world as not always open to diversity and equality. I have always surrounded myself with a diverse group of people and have never really understood why so many people choose to not be open to the wonderful experiences created by diversity. When I read the mission statement I see a school working to teach future educators how to make real changes in society starting with school age children. If I can show children that no matter what race, color, sexual orientation, or economic status, they all deserve an equal chance at education, then I will have made a difference. All children should be treated with dignity and respect. The lessons they learn in school will hopefully stay with them throughout their lives.
Before college, I would say that my only experience with technology was watching “Knight Rider” on our television. Back when I started college, Apple had just introduced the Macintosh and I was lucky enough to purchase one through the University. My introduction to computers had begun. I purchased my first PC when the Mac died and I have been a PC user ever since, both for personal use and in most of my work life. As a caterer, I used a PC to plan meals and seating arrangements. Working for the IRS, I used a computer to create tax files. As a Group Home Coordinator for adults with mental retardation, I created electronic case files. Then, as a Fitness Instructor, I created workout programs and class schedules using a PC. In my most recent career working for Federal Express, I used my hand-held Powerpad to help me route and deliver packages. Although I have had a lot of very different careers, the one unifying thread has been the use of computers. I currently use Microsoft Office 2007 on the PC.
The mission statement of the CSUSM/COE was definitely a factor in choosing CSU for my teaching credential. As a gay man in his forties I have a view of the world as not always open to diversity and equality. I have always surrounded myself with a diverse group of people and have never really understood why so many people choose to not be open to the wonderful experiences created by diversity. When I read the mission statement I see a school working to teach future educators how to make real changes in society starting with school age children. If I can show children that no matter what race, color, sexual orientation, or economic status, they all deserve an equal chance at education, then I will have made a difference. All children should be treated with dignity and respect. The lessons they learn in school will hopefully stay with them throughout their lives.
