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.
6 comments:
Hello Robert,
Wow! It sounds like you've done just about every job imaginable. Your experiences will definitely help you in the classroom. Just like you I am also excited to attend a college that places emphasis on the role of diversity in education. Hopefully we will get to know each other better over the course of the semester.
Hey, I remember Knight Rider, and that was quite a car {giggle}You are a man of many talents,and it's nice to get to know you!
I can't believe that you and I both worked at Fedex and have experienced the thrill of using the powerpad. I really enjoyed reading your blog and liked the 411you gave. Knight Rider is awesome!!
Robert,
It was great to meet you last week and I look forward to getting to know you better over the course of the semester. Your blog looks great! And thank you for your help. See you tonight.
I use to be a orignal mac user long ago before the new trend started, but when my mac laptop died I moved on to a pc too. I agree w/ heather you experiences will help you.
Paul
the knight rider comment got me. Remember like Michael forgot who he was, like abnesia...it must have been one of the later episodes. ...possible a bit too obscure but worth a shot.....or were there....dare i say...TWO MICHAELS!!!
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