its been extremely long since i logged in to post something. Today, at the end of an academic year and a challenging semester, i can finally say IT IS FINISHED!!!! hahaha... and i did it. I remember during one of our cell group meetings where everyone was sharing about what they are looking forward to, everyone shared about new year as in 1 Jan. I was the odd one who said that I was looking forward to February. It seemed like forever at that time... but before i knew it, i am here now, having finalised all the grades for the entire academic year.
At the end of this road, how do i feel? or what have i gained? I think what i enjoyed the most is seeing my students learn and grow in knowledge and maturity. Getting to know them at a more personal level has allowed me to get into their world and witness the story they lived to tell themselves. Two students left a very deep impact on me. J and G. They are both very smart and good students who are keen to learn. J is a GPA 4.0 pointer and G 3.83. They were the top in the entire cohort.
J has always been a popular name among us who has taught him. Don't think he has ever gotten anything other than an A. His intelligence, respect for people and the way he carries himself makes anyone who taught him proud. G on the other hand is known for his logical and critical information processing. He is equally intelligent and outspoken with his good leadership quality. That was all i could see in my capacity as their educator.
As the year went by, my interaction with them grew. I got to know them personally as a friend, not just someone whom they see in front of the room downloading information. I was allowed into their story and was astounded to find out about their past. I struggled to connect their past and present. J was an O-level repeat student and G scored a high of 30 points for his O-level. They both went through a long way to get to where they are today. The route the had to take and the journey they had to endure is not an easy one. Both of them grew from their experience and had a life transformed through their 'failures'. I guess that is what makes them learn and grow. I am highly encouraged and in awe.
Today I am proud and glad for having had them under my guidance. Who learnt more? I am not sure :)
Posted by melanie at February 12, 2008 5:44 PM