Embarking on my journey as a teacher at ACLC College of Mandaue, my alma mater, has been nothing short of a profound blessing. As a distinguished graduate of the institution in Computer Networking and Telecommunications Technology back in 2010, I never anticipated finding myself in the role of an educator. However, when the opportunity arose to impart knowledge to TESDA students, I was pleasantly surprised to discover the sheer joy and fulfillment that teaching brought into my life.
Teaching Visual Graphic Design to eager minds during the first semester, with Animation slated for the next, has been an enlightening experience. Applying critical design judgments to their work has not only honed their skills but has also enriched my own understanding of the subject matter.
Juggling teaching responsibilities alongside running an animation studio and managing a family business initially presented a whirlwind of challenges. My schedule was frenetic, and I even battled a persistent bout of illness for an entire month. The abrupt start left little room for extensive preparation or detailed lesson planning. However, amidst the chaos, I found immense value in the lessons learned from my students.
Interacting with fresh, inquisitive minds has been an education in itself. While some students grapple to grasp the intricacies of my classes, most exhibit a commendable commitment to learning. Of course, there’s no shortage of mischief among the cohort of 18- to 24-year-olds, with distractions ranging from mobile gaming obsessions to budding romantic entanglements. Each student brings with them a unique narrative, offering me diverse insights into life’s myriad perspectives.
Having walked in their shoes, I am now in the privileged position of guiding and influencing them. My aspiration is to impart not just knowledge but also instill a sense of responsibility and ambition in shaping a brighter future. With every interaction, I strive to impart the wisdom gleaned from my experiences, nurturing the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.
Observing the pace of the Gen Z cohort, I’ve noted a stark contrast to our millennial upbringing. Raised in the digital age, they are accustomed to instant access to technology, often at the expense of deeper skills development. Unlike us, who witnessed the evolution of technology firsthand, they are inheritors of its convenience without fully comprehending its complexities. My mission is to inspire them to move beyond mere consumption and embrace innovation, leveraging technology to drive positive change.
Over the course of five months, I’ve had the privilege of teaching and interacting with over 150 students. Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of exceptional students has been a cornerstone of my approach, fostering a culture of excellence and inspiring others to aim higher. Through updates shared on my social media platforms, I extend the reach of their accomplishments to family and friends, contributing to a sense of community pride and collective progress.
In essence, my foray into teaching has been more than just a professional endeavor—it’s been a deeply enriching journey of personal growth and community impact. As I continue to invest in the next generation, I remain steadfast in my commitment to nurturing minds and shaping futures.