1. What is the greatest challenge of being a teacher?

How do you overcome

it?
The individuality of the learners. Given that students have different
upbringing and unique personality you really have to neutralize the
learning environment. In my case,
I have to look beyond and look for
the reasons why they act or talk in a certain
manner.
2. Teachers are meant to teach but as a teacher, what lessons have you
learned from your
profession?
Back then, I was an idealistic teacher. I live by the book, scheduled
lessons and set a high standard that I learned from my undergraduate
studies. But, there are certain
things not taught in prestigious
undergraduate schools. That is, the proper balance of
intellectual and
emotional side of the learners. Its not important that you finish the
book
at the end of the semester its the weight of much they have learned. You
have to integrate the lesson from the book and lesson in life. It keeps them
attentive.
3. Considering the hardships/challenges in the life of a teacher, what keeps
you going or
what motivates you to continue your
profession?
As long as, there are inquisitive eyes looking back while I am teaching
my lesson and
I can still sense their determination to learn in spite of so
many factors (family
problem, poverty, etc.) you can still see me in my
class with my booming voice. Also, the awards during Teachers Day (not
expecting it because I am strict and
disciplinarian totally aware of
that ) but to my surprise I always get the Teacher of the Year award and
some others. (Take note: hindi ko po binayaran ang aking students..
hehehehe) Maybe, I am doing something good that my students appreciate.
4. What pieces of advice can you give to aspiring teachers?
Do not lose the PASSION. That is the most significant thing that you
have to bear in mind once you lose that being effective and efficient
teacher-facilitator evaporates.
You are just a
mere person standing
in front of your students doing monotonous
lessons. There are so many
factors in this profession that loses your motivation but
do not be like the
OTHERS be an IRREPLACEABLE educator: give your best, do not look for
affirmations/praises among your peers, humility (is a must) and be resilient.
For sure, you are a one tough teacher that nobody should mess up
with. (^___^)