Preservice teachers' understanding of their professional goals: Case studies from three different typologies

•Three case studies from three typologies of teachers were examined about teaching goals.•Different combination of reasons (i.e., intrinsic, extrinsic, and altruistic) are relevant for each case.•Beliefs about teaching are based on previous experiences.

This study presents three prospective teachers from different typologies describing their teaching goals. Findings illustrate how participants understand in unique ways their goals in relationship with influential factors that helped them crystallize their teaching decisions. Each individual describes goals as related to main teaching motives, identity issues, beliefs, emotions, and commitment. Implications for practice include teacher education programs and policymakers better understanding the personal characteristics of teacher candidates and tailoring their programs to meet the individual needs of future teachers.