Background information:
Originally from Bangladesh, I grew up in Long Island, New York. I’m an avid reader of English literature, an aspiring writer, and a huge fan of U2. I live in Brooklyn with my husband and the two best cats in the world.
Years spent teaching: At EC, for about 4 years. In total, about 12 years.
What made you decide to become a teacher?
Initially, it was a part-time job in between college and graduate school that took me into teaching. Soon after, I realized how much I loved seeing the joy in someone’s eyes when they were able to communicate what they were struggling to say – because of my teaching. Knowing that I’m able to help someone communicate in a foreign language and simultaneously comprehend a different culture is the most incredible feeling – and that is why I do what I do.
What’s the thing you love most about teaching English at EC?
What I love most about teaching English at EC New York is the variety of students we get. They all have such interesting and unique experiences and personalities; it’s always something new each week. Despite getting new students each week, there’s always a closeness that builds between students that is wonderful to see, and even more wonderful to experience.
What makes teaching at EC so special?
It’s a unique combination of the staff, teachers, and students at EC that makes it so special. My colleagues are always on hand to help brainstorm lesson ideas, laugh about silly things, or provide multifaceted perspectives. The students are not only interesting, but tend to be grateful, which is the best thing a teacher could ask for.
What’s one thing you’ve learned from a student that really stands out?
I truly feel that I learn something from nearly every student I meet, which makes it difficult to pinpoint one thing I’ve learned that really stands out. I’d have to say that the most important thing I’ve learned is to give each person the opportunity to share the one thing they know well. Every student has something that makes them light up when they speak about it, and it’s important for us as teachers to remember that and to give the students that space to share their expertise.
What is your favourite story about a student/teaching?
A year ago on February 13th, I started the class by asking a warm-up question meant to lead the class into a discussion about Valentine’s Day. I asked, “Who can tell me – what is tomorrow?” A student promptly and most earnestly replied, “The future!” I had to give him credit for being unintentionally creative – and he wasn’t wrong, either!
What do you think makes a good teacher?
I think the two most essential qualities a teacher must have are patience and passion. Being that English is technically my second language (or was, at one point), I fully understand the frustration and confusion my students feel when dealing with the language. This helps me be more patient and understanding of their difficulties, which in turn fuels my passion for helping them figure out how to navigate the language skills they already know and what they need to cultivate.
