Joe Zhang, G11 张译文

I never pictured myself as a proficient teacher, feeling inadequate due to my casual demeanor and lack of desire to talk at times. In my perception, teachers are extroverts, brimming with enthusiasm for teaching and reveling in the company of children. While I adore kids, my reserved nature seemed ill-suited for such a role.

After an unexpected journey led to eye-opening revelations, I had second thoughts. As a volunteer, I taught fourth-graders at a primary school in a small county in Guizhou Province — a setting that unveiled numerous surprises. I was astounded by the genuine fondness the students had for me. Their teachers privately introduced them as hard-to-teach and noisy, but that wasn’t true. They’re angels.

I taught diverse subjects, from English and mathematics to arts and physical education, although I am not the athletic type.

As the week wound down, I found myself entrusted with the care of an endearing little girl. Visiting her home, talking with her aunt, and witnessing the dire familial circumstances she endured spurred me into action.

I took her out for a meal and gave her my phone number, assuring her that she can ask me for help whenever she feels like it. At one point, I asked myself, “Would a teacher do that?” Then, a friend shared his insight: A compassionate and dedicated teacher would extend beyond mere obligations to offer care and support. He was right! I didn’t engage in these acts out of duty as a teacher but out of a heartfelt sense of empathy and concern. It was this genuine care that defined my effectiveness as a teacher.

This experience reshaped my perceptions of teaching. The depth and complexity of the role exceeded my initial assumptions. While I may not choose teaching as a lifelong career, I will certainly allocate time and resources to this meaningful pursuit.

I also learned about earning respect as an educator — one must foster connections at a personal level, as equals instead of an authoritative figure.