By Shini Melukunnel
Jharsuguda, Feb 23, 2020: Anmol is a thin and tall, but shy boy. He is fond of sports but least interested in studies. He came to me asking for help in his studies.
In the beginning, he was open and willingly did all his homework. Gradually he had a crush on a girl and stopped coming to me for the help. Many times I lovingly advised him but he moved by the currents of the time. Even his parents were disappointed with his change. I did not give up on him. I tried to make him aware of the consequences of ignoring his studies.
To my great surprise gradually he realized the importance of studies and left the girl with whom he was in love. He found her unfaithful. He was an average student but improved a lot in his studies. The change in him brought me great happiness. I could bring someone to the right track.
This is one of the many joyful experiences I have had as a teacher at St Arnold’s Convent School in Jharsugua, a town in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. I teach in eighth and tenth grades.
Over the years, I have realized that I love children and feel loved by them. Each day for me is an opportunity to work with young minds. It is a phase of learning as well as teaching. I go to the class after spending a lot time in preparing each lesson.
I also work hard to explore different ways to present each lesson. I look for activities that my students would enjoy, and make sure that I have all materials needed for the class.
In another instance, I was giving final practice to the student who was a Master of Ceremonies for the annual function. She had the school bag with her. I asked her “What did you bring in your bag?” She replied, “English book.”
On the school annual function day, she came with an English book. I was curious and asked her, “Why did you bring it on this day?” She said that she liked my teaching so she carried her book every day. The answer brought Goosebumps in me.
One day the class teacher of the ninth grade told me that her students appreciate and draw inspiration from my classes. It gave me immense joy and satisfaction that I could radiate more love and happiness to my students.
Besides preparing for the class, I have realized the need to be more flexible. We never know what’s going to come up or what will catch the students’ attention. I learn a lot from the other teachers too. Working with them is a different experience altogether. Every day is different so I I am prepared for changes.
To be honest, I never liked teaching in the beginning. But as years passed by I began to understand that teaching is a noble job and a good choice.
Now, teaching is an enriching, encouraging and exciting experience for me.
(Sister Shini Melukunnel is a member of the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit).