I can’t say exactly when I decided to pursue teaching, but at some point, I realized that most of my jobs had revolved around it. My first real job was as a lifeguard and swimming instructor. At the time, the job was appealing because it paid more than other options available, but I quickly discovered something important: I enjoyed teaching swimming lessons far more than the lifeguarding itself. Helping others learn and improve was what kept me engaged, and that realization planted the first seeds of my teaching career.
Throughout high school, I found myself naturally drawn to tutoring peers. Explaining concepts, solving problems together, and seeing others grasp difficult ideas gave me a sense of satisfaction that few other activities could. After finishing university, I took this a step further by starting a tutoring business. It grew quickly—I was tutoring over 30 hours a week at one point—but the part I loved most wasn’t the logistics, the advertising, or the business side of things. It was the one-on-one connection with students and the opportunity to help them overcome challenges. That’s when I knew teaching was what I wanted to do full-time, so I pursued a teaching degree.
Teaching felt like the perfect fit because it brings together so many things I value. I’ve always found happiness in pushing through challenges, helping others do the same, and fostering growth. There’s something uniquely rewarding about playing a role in someone’s progress—whether it’s helping a student understand a tricky concept, watching them develop confidence, or seeing them achieve something they didn’t think was possible. Those moments of learning and growth are what make teaching so fulfilling.
For me, teaching is about more than just academics. It’s about engaging with others in a way that’s meaningful, supportive, and inspiring. It allows me to share my enthusiasm for learning while also encouraging others to discover their own passions. I believe that when you focus on activities that are meaningful and fun, it not only brings joy but also leads to greater engagement and success. That’s what I strive to help my students find—what excites them, what challenges them, and what brings them a sense of accomplishment.
I’ve also learned that teaching isn’t just about delivering knowledge; it’s about fostering relationships and creating an environment where growth can happen. Empathy plays a big role in this. I try to understand my students’ perspectives, meet them where they are, and help them move forward. When someone is struggling, I remind myself to consider their intentions rather than just their actions. Most people don’t set out to make mistakes or fall short—they’re just navigating challenges in their way. I approach teaching with this mindset, and I think it’s made me a more patient and supportive educator.
One of the things I love most about teaching is that it’s never static. Every day brings new challenges, opportunities, and interactions. I get to watch students grow—not just academically, but as individuals. I see them develop problem-solving skills, resilience, and a sense of confidence in their abilities. Being part of that process is incredibly rewarding
At the end of the day, teaching is about helping others find their own path to success and happiness. It’s about sharing knowledge, but also about inspiring curiosity, promoting growth, and creating a space where people can discover their potential. For me, there’s nothing more fulfilling than that.
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