All of my family members are still alive, except for my Dad’s father and my Mom’s parents. My Dad’s father, Marvin, was a brilliant man. He was born on May 27, 1929 and died on August 1, 2006. He had an Associate’s Degree from college and worked as a boiler fireman at a plant in his hometown. He loved his job but, it was very dangerous. He made good money because of the level of danger. His wife, Linda, was born on August 14, 1936. She only has a high school diploma, but went on to receive her LVN license. She worked at several different hospitals and clinics. My grandmother loved her job and still uses it from time to time. My Mom’s Dad, Alvie, was born on September 3, 1921 and passed away on May 9, 1993. He had a Bachelor’s Degree and was a math teacher. He thought about changing professions several times to make more money for the family, but loved teaching too much to give it up. His wife, Lennie, was born on August 24, 1927 and died on March 11, 2005. Her highest level of education was a high school diploma. My grandmother was a housewife and loved every minute of it.
My Dad, Russell, was born on March 7, 1957. He has a Bachelor’s Degree and is a self-employed business owner. He works very hard, but loves the job he does. My Mom, Nancy, was born on February 7, 1957 and has an Associate’s Degree. She works with my Dad owning a business. She regrets not getting a higher level of education, but said she learned a specific trade, which made her a successful business woman.
My older brother, Nathan, was born on July 1, 1981. He has his Doctorate Degree. He is a doctor and absolutely loves it! I was born on March 7, 1987 and I am currently a graduate student. I love my teaching profession and cannot wait to become a school counselor. My husband, Jagen, was born on June 28, 1984. He has his Master’s and is a financial analyst. Jagen says his job is very stressful and busy, but he loves the challenges it brings every day.
Creating a genogram was a new and interesting experience for me. I really enjoyed digging into my past. I thought I knew everything about my family, but I never really thought about my grandparent’s level of education. I think my family gives a great example of how the level of education has increased throughout every generation. I also think with the level of education, the job profession changes as well. Every one of my family members are a hard worker. I definitely see a college pattern. I also see how teaching runs in the family. I remember being really little and my grandpa teaching me how to write my numbers all the way to 100. My parents have always pushed my brother and me to strive hard and have high education goals. I think my parents are the reason we both have higher than a Bachelor’s degree. I know my Mom regrets not finishing college. She really pushes me and is so proud of me graduating and then furthering my education with graduate school. I think she vicariously lives through me in a way. As my family pushed me to attain a high level of education, my Dad always told me to do what I was passionate about; to always follow my heart. He is the reason I am in education today. My Dad is the family member I look up to the most. He is such a hard worker, completely dedicated to his work and what he does. He is responsible, reliable, determined, and confident in his career. I strive to be all of these traits daily.
