In Their Own Words
issue 66 sep 2018

A Passion for Education

Many can agree that teaching is a noble profession that allows one to enrich the lives of young learners, both in and outside of the classroom. Four scholars from the NTU-NIE Teaching Scholars Programme reflect on why they decided to embark on their teaching journeys and their aspirations for the future of education.

Ms Sakinah Bte Mohamed Mohsen

 Bachelor of Arts (Education), Year 2

I chose teaching as a career because I believe that an educator’s job extends beyond teaching. Although most of the time teachers teach and go through the educational syllabus, we also equip our students with important life skills that will enable them to deal effectively with the challenges in everyday life. Along this journey, we multitask between the roles of a teacher, a best friend, a confidant, a motivator; and the list goes on. In addition, since my area of specialisation is Mother Tongue Language, I want to nurture a love for the Mother Tongue Language among the younger generation. I aspire to make lessons fun and memorable so that the young will genuinely appreciate the beauty of the language.

Ms Amanda Sarah Chin Yong Hui

Bachelor of Arts (Education), Year 4

I cannot help but be drawn to be an educator. I love learning! Spreading this love for learning, especially beyond the curriculum, is such a joy for me. I am such a nerd—sharing exciting things with my students drives me to be more accountable for my own learning. I am grateful to have been given opportunities to continue growing professionally. Being in the classroom rewards me with diverse experiences as well as space for spontaneity and enthusiasm. Teaching is no doubt challenging, but its ever-changing nature brings an entertaining perspective to life (for example, interacting with cheeky students) that a desk-bound job does not always offer.

Mr Joel Wei Maojie

Bachelor of Science (Education), Year 4

Teaching to me is not just about imparting knowledge; it is also about inculcating students with morals and values and supporting them in achieving their life goals. Until today, I cannot forget the warm feeling of encouragement and hope my teacher had given me when I failed my exams. That motivated me to pick myself up and start over again. My calling to be a teacher became clear after I interacted with boys living at a boys’ home during an internship. The opportunity to provide a glimmer of hope and inspiration to youths was a meaningful experience for me. I also hope to encourage students who have experienced an educational journey similar to mine. Teaching is a two-way dissemination of values and morals. I have learnt from students as much as I have taught them.

Francina Ranjitha Fernando

Bachelor of Arts (Education), Year 2

“That the powerful play goes on and you may contribute a verse. What will your verse be?” This was the quote by Robin Williams from the movie “Dead Poets Society” that lingered in my mind as I decided on which career to embark on. I thought long and hard on this quote and came to the simple realization that a glamorous job was not what I wanted, but an impactful one. I chose teaching as it enables me to transform the lives of my students and make them realize their own hidden potential to make a positive difference to others and even the world.

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