"Teaching comes from learning, it's an unending process "

Teaching was one of the worst job I could ever imagine. Being in a place where there are lots of naughty students gives me headache. Stepping into my journey as a teacher was like the beginning of my big adventure. Join me as I share my experiences and struggles being a newly hired teacher.

After finishing my first year in college, I had a plan getting a job instead of enrolling for second year. My mind was fixed at that particular time. My only concern is having a job then save money for my tuition. So I gave it a shot and applied for a job that's actually not my ideal one, but I know I'm capable of doing.

What I ate before going to the interview 😋

Days after the interview. Training

I really didn't expect that I'd be given a chance and be part of this fancy school. Imagine waiting for a call that could possibly change your life journey. That's exactly what happened to me, when unexpectedly, I received calls and messages from my friend, who's also a teacher, that I should go there to have an interview. I immediately got out of bed, showered, and began getting ready. I was happy and excited that moment, and I thought to myself, finally I would be able to save money.

(Pictures ahead are random stuffs where I decided to take pictures, for keeps.)

The perks of having a very supportive Papa. Thank you Paps!🤎

Early bird🤭

THINGS WE DO AT SCHOOL Note: Using cellphone during class is not allowed. Pictures are taken after class or during five minutes break. I was assigned to the reading and writing department. At first, it was a bit challenging for me to adjust because it was my first time teaching adults from other countries. I can truly say that when it comes to unity, communication is the key solution to such challenges. Despite our different nationalities, appearances, abilities, or habits, these are not barriers to understanding each other.

The teaching method is one-on-one, just you and your student in one cubicle. At first, I felt a bit awkward, since some of my students were males. But over time, I got used to talking and teaching them. During the first day of class it only depends on the teacher and his/her students if they want to start discussing immediately. In my case, I was given new students so the first thing we did was introduce ourselves and get to know each other. I was really amazed about the stories that they shared and how they ended up enrolling to an international school. Some of my students says that they wanted to be fluent in English because they can use it if they travel to other countries, while others said that they wanted to learn English for school purposes, and or for work.

Each student has a different book, depending on their skill level. For example, in the reading and writing department, if I'm not mistaken, there are four levels: Reading Advantage 1, which is for those who can't understand English fluently and not able to speak English; Reading Advantage 2, for those who know a bit about speaking and understanding English; Reading Advantage 3, only few students have this book, it's for those who understand and are already quite skilled in English but is struggling with pronunciation or constructing sentences using English; Reading Advantage 4, very few students have this book as well, because it's for those who are really proficient in speaking, understanding, and writing sentences in English. I think teaching students with who has this kind of book won't be difficult because they already know a lot, and some of them might even be more knowledgeable than the teachers. But they just really want to learn more, enhance their communication skills, and broaden their knowledge about various things.

During class, my students and I usually plan which topic to cover and until what page we'll discuss. My students are Japanese, Korean, and Taiwanese. They all have nice personalities, are active in class, and participate most of the time. I always make sure that my students are comfortable in making conversation with me or talking about their personal ideas or thoughts about lifeThere are times when my students request a short break before we continue studying. As a teacher, I understand their situation; being a student can be tiring with all the things they need to do. During breaks, we do activities like making origami or play games that are still related to the topic.

Attending students graduation 🎓 Every week, specifically on Fridays, there are students who will graduate. There are Taiwanese, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and others. The teachers of these students are required to attend the ceremony to witness the success achieved by their students and to give advice and messages before the students return to their respective countries.

Fire drill 🧯🚒 Went outside to execute how to properly use fire extinguisher... Fire drills are great opportunities for students and teachers to know about fire safety measures. Fire drill plays crucial role in emergency preparedness, this drills can save lives and avoid possible risks to happen

RANDOM:

We had a quick stop to take a sip of their very refreshing drinks. This is near the school where I teach. The place is really nice. It's simple, not too fancy, and it has minimal designs. It's also well ventilated

Went to SM City, Seafood Paradise, to try their yummy samgyupsalan and tasty seafoods. The restaurant is a bit expensive, but the foods they serve are worth the price. I had a great time with my fellow teachers and two of their students, and I am thankful that they invited me to go with them. I will never forget that day.

We had so much fun eating and chatting. After we ate, we walked around for a bit to enjoy our time together. We also stopped here and bought ice cream before deciding to go home. We dropped off the students at school, then it's our time to look for a ride going home.

The next day:

Going out again with my teacher friends. Time for dinner! We're on our way home and thought of eating first before heading home. KFC, one of my favorite!

Days later... Waiting for jeepney... Jeepney is a popular mode of transportation here in the Philippines. I was running late this moment. Papa couldn't take me to school because he's also late for work. I had no choice but to commute.

Me with my students 🤎🤍 They call me teacher Shiena, young teacher✨ The memories we created are truly valuable, it is indeed worth the time and experience. I will never forget the joyful moments we shared. I will cherish our memories forever, they hold a special place in my heart that no one can replace. Thank you, my dear students, for your gifts of love and the connections we've built. I'm also grateful to my fellow teachers, friends, and department leaders for their willingness to help and guide me. Thank you guys so much. I'm rooting for all of you to be successful and happy in life. Until we meet again. Gracias!!🤎