My biggest lesson

 

Topic
How the profession of a teacher has seeped into my personal life. Share with examples.

Resilience fuels growth
Tushar was an eighth grader who had always been enthusiastic about maths, but he struggled with the more advanced topics in algebra. While pointing out mistakes during one lesson, I questioned his grasp of the concepts. As I spoke, I noticed Tushar’s shoulders slump, his confidence visibly diminishing. I regretted my approach. But to my surprise, Tushar arrived early next day and approached me with a new set of problems.Tushar’s ability to rebound from criticism and his proactive approach to mastering the material highlighted the importance of nurturing resilience in students. It reminded me that our role as educators is not only to teach but also to support and inspire students
to tackle challenges with determination.
Sheeba Sardana, AIS MV

Roots of empathy
Ayaan, a student of mine, talked about a tree in his neighbourhood that had been cut down for construction, and how it deeply affected him. His empathy extended far beyond himself; he saw trees as beings with their own intrinsic value, not just as objects to be used. I had taught about environmental conservation before, but Ayaan’s emotional depth made me realise that knowledge alone isn’t enough. True change happens when people develop an emotional connection with nature. His intelligence and heartfelt understanding of trees opened my eyes to the need for more compassionate teaching when it comes to our environment.
Shalini Kaushik, AIS Vas 6

Hope beyond hardship
I had a student whose family was facing a lot of financial hardships but she remained committed to her education. Her struggle was not merely about survival but about striving to rise above her situation. Aaradhya taught me something fundamental about perspective. I had always prided myself on being empathetic, yet Aaradhya’s story made me confront a more profound truth: empathy is not just about understanding someone else’s pain but also about recognising the strength and hope that can emerge from it. Aaradhya’s perseverance in the face of adversity was a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and grace.
Neha Kaul, AIS Noida

Learning fuels compassion
One of the most profound ways in which teaching has impacted me is through its emphasis on patience and understanding. As a teacher, I learned to navigate the diverse needs and learning styles of my students. This experience that I have gained in my career has helped me develop a greater appreciation for the unique perspectives of others. In my personal life, I find myself approaching challenges with a more patient and understanding mindset. Whether it’s dealing with a difficult situation or simply listening to a friend’s concerns, I am better equipped to respond with empathy and compassion. Furthermore, teaching has instilled in me a lifelong love of learning.
Nimisha Moghe, AIS Gwalior

Because life runs on logic too
One vivid example of teaching permeating my personal life is how I approach problem-solving. Mathematics, by its nature, requires a logical and structured way of thinking. Whether it’s managing household finances, planning vacations, or even organising social events, I find myself applying mathematical principles to ensure efficiency and effectiveness. For instance, when planning a family trip, I often use budgeting techniques and logistical calculations to optimise expenses and schedules, much like how I would approach a mathematical problem. This systematic approach, which I employ in my professional capacity, has become second nature in my personal decisions.
Lovekesh Sidhu, AIS Pushp Vihar

Lessons beyond classroom
I think that when you spend a few years working as a teacher running a school, you naturally accomplish managing your home, your family, and, surprisingly, others’ events as well. The organisational skills and discipline that I’ve refined over the years are unmatched, as these have not only made me more
efficient but also an evolved person. They’ve shaped how I interact with my family, how I contribute to my community, and how I manage my home. The lessons  that I impart at school, I also carry them into my personal life, and keep striving for the same fineness in
both territories.
Rachna Mishra, AIS VKC Lko

Fulfilment that often goes beyond work
Teaching has instilled a sense of purpose and fulfilment that extends to my personal life. Seeing students grow, learn, and succeed provides a profound sense of achievement that resonates beyond the classroom. This fulfilment often translates into a positive outlook and a deeper appreciation for the everyday joys of life, reinforcing the connection between my professional satisfaction and personal well-being. Each day, I look forward to going to school, where I forget all my worries about my personal life. The hours spent in school make me forget the outside world, and let me enjoy my childhood with my students.
Neha Tanwar, AIS Saket

All the experiences shared on page 3-4 are extracts from the winning essays penned by teachers as part of the seventh essay writing competition conducted under the guidance of Chairperson, Amity Group of Schools & RBEF, Dr (Mrs) Amita Chauhan, on the special occasion of Teachers’ Day 2025.