The Teacher Who Was Stalked – In a Good Way

A teacher shares her joy in witnessing students transform from hesitant learners into confident individuals, highlighting the deep bonds formed during their time at the university. These connections endure, with students remembering her long after they’ve left the institute.

When I reflect on my time as a teacher, the first thing that comes to mind isn’t the lessons I’ve taught or the grades my students earned — it’s the bond we’ve built. There’s something magical about walking into a room full of fresh-faced first-year students, each with their unique personalities, wide-eyed curiosity, and a thirst for learning. I’ve always had a soft spot for these newcomers to university life. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and it’s a privilege to witness their transformation from tentative learners into confident individuals over the course of the academic year.

There’s this joy I find in seeing the ‘lightbulb moment’ when a student finally grasps a concept that had previously eluded them. It’s like watching a flower bloom — slowly, then all at once. I love seeing the spark in their eyes when they realize they’ve learned something new, something that may change how they view the world, even if just a little. Those moments aren’t just heartwarming; they’re what make teaching worthwhile. They’re reminders that beyond the syllabus and the lecture slides, there’s a real, profound connection being forged between teacher and student.

Students as Social Media Sleuths

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate enough to form close relationships with many of my students. I’ll never forget the time a group of them jokingly confessed to me that they had ‘stalked’ me on social media. “We’re obsessed!” they declared with cheeky grins. As odd as it might sound, it wasn’t creepy or uncomfortable — it was endearing. They weren’t just students; they were people who genuinely cared about me, just as I cared about them. And to be honest, they kept me on my toes! There’s nothing quite like having a few dozen extra pairs of eyes keeping tabs on you online. “Miss, we saw your new post—what a cool weekend!” or “Why didn’t you tell us you’re such a foodie?” they’d tease, their messages lighting up my phone at all hours. I’d chuckle to myself, amused at the harmless attention, but also touched that they thought of me beyond the confines of the classroom.

They weren’t just students; they were people who genuinely cared about me, just as I cared about them. And to be honest, they kept me on my toes! There’s nothing quite like having a few dozen extra pairs of eyes keeping tabs on you online.

My Scholars, My Family

In many ways, my students aren’t just learners in my class; they’re like family. They come to me for advice, to share their troubles, and even just to chit-chat when they need a break from the pressures of university life. These informal moments are often more meaningful than anything that happens during lectures. When they sit across from me, sharing their fears about the future, or simply talking about the latest trend they’re obsessed with, it’s a reminder that teaching isn’t just about academics. It’s about life, relationships, and the small, human moments that leave a lasting impact.

That One Pupil

There’s one student in particular who embodies this connection. She was one of my students a few years ago — bright, motivated, and always ready to engage with the material. She had a passion for learning that was palpable, and she stood out because of her eagerness to ask questions and challenge ideas. Over time, we developed a close rapport. After graduating, she went on to pursue a master’s degree in London, an accomplishment that filled me with immense pride. But what moved me even more was that, despite the geographical distance and the whirlwind of postgraduate life, she never forgot me.

It’s moments like these that remind me of why I teach. Yes, it’s about sharing knowledge, guiding students through their academic journeys, and helping them grow intellectually. But it’s also about making a difference.

Every year, without fail, she calls me on Teachers’ Day. No matter where she is in the world, or how busy her schedule might be, she finds time to reach out and wish me. It’s never just a quick ‘Happy Teachers’ Day,’ either. We talk, we catch up, and she tells me about her latest adventures, her challenges and her dreams. The first time she called, I was genuinely surprised. I remember asking, “You’ve moved on to bigger things, why still think of me?” She laughed and said, “You’re the reason I’m here. I couldn’t have done this without you.”

It’s moments like these that remind me of why I teach. Yes, it’s about sharing knowledge, guiding students through their academic journeys, and helping them grow intellectually. But it’s also about making a difference, even in the smallest of ways. When a student looks back at their time in university and remembers me — not just for the lectures, but for the support, the guidance, and the genuine care — it’s the most rewarding feeling in the world.

Building relationships

Teaching is full of funny, interesting and thought-provoking moments, but for me, the best part is the relationships I’ve built along the way. It’s knowing that long after they’ve left my classroom, my students still think of me as someone who made a difference in their lives. And if that means being stalked on social media or getting surprise phone calls from across the globe, I’ll take it with a full heart. Because in the end, that’s what teaching is all about — making connections that last a lifetime.

DISCLAIMER: Views expressed above are that of the author and do not reflect the views of the website. The Peeper Times does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.

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