Ms Chong the Cher

Fear

2010-02-20T21:24:00.000+08:00

Suddenly don't feel that confident in this industry. =/

7 more to go

2009-11-30T01:09:00.002+08:00

The first semester in NIE has finally come to an end last Tuesday, 24th November 2009.

It has been a good semester. Much better than I have expected it. Meet lovely friends. Learnt many new things. It's one semester down, seven more to go, but I don't really wish the remaining 7 semesters passes quickly. I know I will miss study life like nuts upon graduation. Just read through this blog and I will be reminded of the times when I was teaching, but wanting badly to be a student again.

Lots of food outings, lots of silly talks, lots of laughters, lots of odd ideas, lots of fun, lots of stress, lots of questioning, lots of studying, lots of playing.

Dear Zenn, Sarah, Ruth, Calvin and Charlotte, can we hang out as a clique still next semester? ('?')

?

2009-10-17T12:23:00.001+08:00

Hmm. Should I update this blog with life as a student teacher?

Miss MY teachers back in school so much! =/

Ms Chong

2009-07-31T12:09:00.001+08:00

will become a History - English teacher.

=)

Pictures from HSCS Teachering Days - PLAYING MOMENTS

2009-06-15T13:23:00.003+08:00

BBQ

2009-05-09T12:08:00.001+08:00

Amantha had an enjoyable with the teachers during the gathering. =)

Invigilation

2009-05-02T09:36:00.000+08:00

Exams are here...
All the best people! =)

Interview

2009-04-30T02:22:00.001+08:00

The long awaited interview, is here at last.

50th Speech Day

2009-04-18T19:37:00.003+08:00

HSCS 50th Speech Day was like some big wedding day! The preparation, all the efforts and time every single person put in was countless. Teachers doube up or even 'triple' up to become florist, organisers, technicians etcetc. You name it, we have it. The place was nicely and SWEETLY decorated with the flowers...It was a blast. And tho it did demand lots of energy from all of us, i guess most of us did have fun! =)

Kitten-Sitter

2009-04-08T22:05:00.003+08:00

During Monday's AP, it was the 3N's POA test. I end up invigilating while 'kitten-sitting'.

One of the students brought in a kitten. The kitten couldn't stop 'meowing', so she gotta carry it. Yes, pets are not allowed in school, least say classroom, and during a test! But how would anyone with a heart bear to ask the student to leave the kitten outside the room? Such a small, vulnerable creatures will more often than not, be mistreated while alone 'out there'. And this one looks like it has just come to this world not too long ago.

So though i've never carried a kitten before i my entire life till now, I offered to carry it so that my student can do her test. It may appear kind of 'ridiculous' and 'absurd' to some people, but I think I did the right thing, and i'm happen with my decision, regardless of how other teachers or students think of me. I took pic of the kitten. Shall upload it the next round. =)

Cheers people! We're into the 4th week of term 2 already.

The new school term

2009-04-01T07:58:00.002+08:00

It's the mid-week of the second week of term 2. Same old story of chasing for homework, reminders and reminders, and more reminders. With the students, those under my care, it's like one of those love-hate relationships. Perhaps not hate, but irritating and sometimes, frustrating. It gets on my nerves when they don't take instructions seriously, when they have such lackadaisical attitude. But yet, at times they are such sweet and cute bunch of peepz! -chuckled-

The next big event coming up will be Speech Day'09! And i'm playing the school hymn and song. The teachers say it's an honour. Of course I appreciate the opportunity. Afterall, who gets so many chances to live the life of one's student's days again? It just feels like those days back in HSCS. Other than acadamic matters, there's tons of other activities to busy with...and learn from. =) But it's stressful. Cos people aren't expecting the pianist to make mistakes in school song and hymn. >.<

Hai Carnival 2009

2009-03-29T08:04:00.001+08:00

The Hai Carnival 2009 was a BLAST! Great success! The day before, everyone in school were buzzing about to prepare for the big event! It feels awesome to have the school working together, having fun together. It was also a nostalgic feeling for me, cos it just feels like the days when I was a student leader, when we stay back after school to plan and prepare for activities, events and camps.

I helped Ms Ng out with the flowers. Trimming the torns, cutting the leaves etcetc.
Here are the flowers Ms Ng and I trimmed.

The carnival day itself was busy busy busy with TONS of funz! The first time being a florist and I enjoyed it thoroughly! The flowers were just so lovely!

Here are some pictures of the roses...

and those unique bears that Ms Ng displayed for decoration..not for sale!

Farah dear and I =)

With 4e5 peepz...Balloon Sculpturing...! Don't I look like one of them in my school pe t-shirt? =D

=)

2009-03-19T21:01:00.000+08:00

Amantha is glad to have this one week of break. :)

Teachers in Uniform =D

2009-03-12T22:34:00.002+08:00

Towards the end of the term

2009-03-12T17:09:00.002+08:00

Today, 'I feel like a little girl, trying to conquer the whole wide world. Everybody wants a piece of me, I just don't know where to turn'.

The school term ends tomorrow for a one week holiday break. I am welcoming this short break.

This whole term has been so vastly different compared to TPJC days last year, but I must say, I learnt a lot, and is still learning feverntly. I, will nuture myself into the teacher I want to be.

Teachers in The Room =)

2009-03-11T23:32:00.001+08:00

Guitar Hero Teachers!

2009-03-10T23:27:00.000+08:00

We are teachers who pebble, stone and rocKz! -grin-

Please

2009-02-28T02:25:00.003+08:00

beahave, students. I really dislike having to 'threateng', I dislike being naggy. The only reason why i do things that i sometimes do it's because I really care. I am concern of your academic progress, your future, YOUR LIFE. Please don't grow up not knowing who you are. This life is definitely worth more than that.

Sustaining

2009-02-11T08:03:00.003+08:00

I have my doubts in becoming a teacher good enough, sincere enough, true enough to gain the students respect. I have my doubts in becoming a teacher who can truly make a difference, or in some way, be of help to the students. I don't want to become a teacher that treat all the work like a job, dreading anything that got to do with school.

Each day I remind myself of my purpose and wants of becoming a teacher. I look for positive signs, I look for signs of encouragement. I think of the students and my own school days. I try to put myself in the students' shoes. I try to appreciate each of them in their own ways. No one is bad by nature. I try to think of ways to reach out to them, to break through the barrier and be able to befriend them while maintaining the line of respect and serious work.

Onward, I go....

New Realization

2009-02-05T13:51:00.002+08:00

I realized that it actually hurts to see students giving up on test and just sleep through it. It's sad.

Wonder...

2009-02-02T10:03:00.003+08:00

I felt the vast difference in teaching style, methods, discipline etc after teaching in a secondary school for 8 days.

Even the feel of the place, the people, the everything.

I do question myself if I will ever become the kind of teacher that reprimand students everyday. Will I?

Being a Secondary School Teacher

2009-01-23T15:45:00.002+08:00

is SO DIFFERENT from a JC teacher.

I'm still adjusting to the vast difference.

A brand new kind of challenge. Let's see what the coming weeks bring. For now, Happy CNY!

Ms Chong the Cher

2009-01-15T13:21:00.001+08:00

is going to teach Principal of Accounts in her alma mater, Hai Sing Catholic School. =)

Brought A Smile

2009-01-09T20:17:00.000+08:00

"Hi Ms Chen, Mr Goh, Mr Toy-Yib and Ms Chong,

This is Yu Min from 08S24. You've taught me H1 Econs in a part of 2008 last year.
Just wanna say a BIG Thank You to you for your inspiration that spurs me to love and understand Economics better. (sounds mushy haha...) Because of this, I've taken a qualifying test and have been approved to be up my Econs from H1 to H2 now!
This means a lot to me. So...thank you again!
And you've not been forgotten. Happy 2009 to you! "

This, brought a smile today. Thank you.

Thank You, Teacher

2008-12-11T22:13:00.003+08:00

I am so touched by my ex-GP tutor cum awesome friend today. She told me she needs to pass me my Krismas pressie. When I look into the bag on my way to Highlanders, I couldn't register what exactly was going on in my mind that moment. I am so touched. She brought a tear. I can feel a pool of thoughts swirling and a mixture of emotions stirring. Gosh, I am so so touched.

In the bag was a wrapped gift, a book and a memo like thingy with beautiful pictures and quotes about teaching and education. The wrapped gift aside. (It will only be unwrapped on Krismas day.) One look at the other two items, I know it was something she owned from her early teaching days...when she first started. I was so touched. She bothers, bother supporting and encouraging me, this toddler taking my first few tiny steps in the teaching career. She pass on what she had to her ex-student. Till now, I cannot get over it. And I think I won't anytime soon.

Yes, she is not the first teacher that has touched me, inspired me, helped me, encouraged me, supported me, believe in me. But it just feels so 'wow'. Really. I think this is precisely why I love my teachers so much. They are much MORE than a teacher.

Sometimes, I do get a bit scared when I think of me becoming a teacher, like them. Scared cos' I will be the one in their shoes and some other people will taeke my place. I am afraid I can't be as good as my teachers are. But anyway, it's a long road ahead, like all teachers, I too will be starting from scratch, from point zero. So dear me, just remember to remind yourself of the essentials that are invisible to the eyes. When the journey gets tough, remind yourself of these times when you are inspired to be a good teacher, don't complain nor whine. Remember? It's when the journey gets toughest that you musn't quit!

Here's two of the quotes from the memo I like plenty. I will reflect upon each quote and share them here bit by bit.

"The dream begins with a teacher who believe in you, who tugs, pushes and leads you to the next plateau, sometimes poking you with a sharp stick called "truth". -Dan Rather

"A teacher's purpose is not to create students in their own image but to develop students who can create theirs." -Author Unknown

NTU-NIE Degree in Education (Arts)

2008-12-11T01:37:00.002+08:00

Amantha wants to pursue a degree in Education and become a trained teacher in school.

After all the trying out of various jobs, after all the pondering, after a year of bumping around, a year of mood swings, a year of wandering, a year of exploring, I have decided I want to be in the teaching industry.

So much tears, so much struggles, so much selft-doubts, dip in self-esteem and confidence level, I am so glad going through all these is worthy.

Everything happens for a reason. I believe in that. After experiencing so many blessings in disguise. But, one can't be told of the reason(s) behind each thing that happens, cos if so, then you will want a reason for the reason. It will be a never ending process.

I have lots in my mind now. I hope I can share them bit by bit here. This place I will frequent, perhaps more than my personal blog.

I must and I will pass the interview.

At Kumon

2008-12-10T00:41:00.001+08:00

Sometimes the kids test my patienct, sometimes they are playful, sometimes they are stubborn, but they caught me off guard a million times...in a good way. =)

There are no good kids or bad kids. They all are different in their own ways. The very obedient and diligent ones will always take good care of themselves, and I will always be impressed by their intelligence, hardwork and self-discipline. To be able to take pride in their work and be considerate at their age impressed me.

The more hyper and active ones usually make lots of noise. These kids are the ones we have to spend more time coaching. They are also the ones who test our patience, but I cannot deny that they too are good and special in their own way. There's this kid that I have been coaching every session he comes. Veryvery tough to get him to sit down and finish his work. He will write ONE word, and run off elsewhere, or read A paragraph then wander somewhere else to distub other students. Initially, it was challenging for me, me...someone who's so impatient. But week after week, we have gradually become 'friends'. Ya, I surprised myself. I actually have the patience to bring him back to his sit each time he runs away etc. During the last session, I know I have 'won' him over. I wasn't coaching him last week. He was the only student left at 2130 (the usual), so I offered him to sit beside me to do his work while I do the recordings. To my pleasant pleasant surprised, he did just so. Of course, he couldn't finish all his work, but it was kind of amazing. I have also come to realized that I do enjoy this friendship we have.

Then there's this 7 yr old girl who asked me a question which I couldn't understand initially.
She asked, " B is this way or that way " (with some hand gestures)
I was like huh? (in my brain) so I asked her to repeat her question again.
She went, "must write right side or left side"
I was again, lost.
Then just so randomly, somewhere in my brain went 'clicked'! Haha
She had the same problem as I did when I was very young. She didn't know how to write small letter B

this way --> d or that way ---> b

Just reminds me so much of the youngyoungyoung me. So glad that I didn't confuse 'p' with 'd' and 'b'.

Oh then there is also this 4 yr old girl who kept shouting "What the fuck!" while she was doing her work. I was quite stunned no by her but by the fact that everyone just left her alone. So I went to her and told her that it's not right to use that expression. Her response was, "but why? my brother and daddy always use it'. I was caught off guard. How do I explain to her? She probably didn't know that it is unpleasant to use such a phrase, but use it anyway.

Much as I start to enjoy my time at Kumon, I still miss my students in tpjc....a lot

Irashayimase!!!

2008-12-08T20:35:00.000+08:00

Hello there, I found out that my beloved teacher cum friend actually did have a blog which she wrote about her teaching days. So I thought it'll be nice to have one of my own too! Might be a copy-cat, but oh well, I like the idea to keep a blog about my teaching days too. Even though i'm 'officially' not a trained teacher - yet =p

Since the year is coming to an end, I will make use of this chance to write about the teaching experience this year.

I miss my students cum friends plenty!

Realization

2008-12-04T15:56:00.000+08:00

I realized while I was teaching at Kumon today, that I really enjoy teaching to admin work. Really. Even though the kids sometimes test my patience, I really really prefer teaching to admin work.

Now, I will enjoy my time at Kumon more.

Gone

2008-09-27T12:33:00.000+08:00

I left without saying goodbye to my classes this time. And I didn't send any online messages to them via tpjc.net.

I wish them all the best in their JC2 year.

The promo level marking was an eye-opener and the results were 'Wow'.
Some good wows
Some sad wows
and some surprised wows...

Take care people. In everything you do, give your best. cheers!

Thank You

2008-09-27T09:34:00.000+08:00

here's the card from the Econs department. My second card from them this year...
and thank you Ms Yap, for noticing that i like bearbears =)

Simplexity

2008-09-23T02:11:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, the complex masquerade as the simple, and the simple parade itself as complex.

I think human beings are so easily misled by beauty, by speed, by time, by our own fear, by eloquence, by death, by wealth, by size, by imagination, by worries, by selfishness, by the unfathomability of life itself, and by things that matter the least at the end of the day.

Promos Marking

2008-09-19T10:12:00.001+08:00

Ms Young & the compre papers

What? that's just one of the stacks of econs case study... =/

Happy Teacher's Day!

2008-09-02T10:08:00.000+08:00

My first Teachers' Day as a Teacher.

Teacher's Day celebration was pretty enjoyable, and thanks to all students for your well wishes, gifts and food. Appreciate it truly. =)

Food outing with sisters, ivan and ross was awesome too.

Keep Marking!

2008-08-18T14:21:00.000+08:00

i just got to keep going.

salsa fiesta was good.

I'm still breathing =)

cheerz!

-back to marking-

My New 6 Economics Classes

2008-08-06T09:59:00.000+08:00

08A06
08s01
08S02
08S07
08S09+S24
08S14

These are my new classes for this term till the promotional exams. As there had been lots of changes in teachers, and there is barely much time left till promos, I really couldn't afford to do much ice-breaker games and chit chats with them (as compared to myprevious classes).

I'm not sure how they regard me, but we're definitely not as close as compared to the classes I've taught earlier on in the year. Anyhow, I hope to give my best and see them through their promos.

I

2008-07-30T14:44:00.000+08:00

am now qualified to drive on the roads! =)

Kumon

2008-07-08T10:21:00.000+08:00

First day of work at Kumon today.

Obviously, it's different tutoring the children there compared to teaching the students in school =p

Visiting School

2008-07-04T11:13:00.000+08:00

I visited Joyce & Fui San at TPJC today...
and, I decided to dress in my uniform. =)

Slipping Away

2008-06-29T01:14:00.000+08:00

When each phase comes to an end, I will be desperately wishing that it will slow down. Even after all that I have complained and disliked.

Yet, no matter how I fret and plead, time just continue ticking away and the moments just slipped away...while I look at it fade away from me helplessly. I miss school.

and yes, I'm going to miss the ppl at Cedele Golden Shoe too.
Reeve, Sandosa, Aunty Teresa and Da Ge.

It's back to school in a couple of weeks. I wonder which classes were I be taking now..

Another day to work

2008-06-12T13:04:00.000+08:00

I woke up with a start at 0545. I was dreaming. Dreaming badly. I went back to sleep and was awaken by my alarm. It was a relief cos I was dreaming again, a very unpleasant dream about Young and I. (which at this moment I cannot recall anything about the dream).

Looking out of the window, I see that my favourite weather is about to come. I can literally see the grey clouds covering like a blanket in the sky.

'What a weather to get ready for work. Duh!', I thought to myself.

While I was walking to the bus stop, I really enjoy the pleasant company of the breeze and the smell of the rain. It's the third day of work today. I'm wondering how long will it be before I get tired of doing the 'same thing' everyday. Hopefully, this will not turn into a routine. -cross fingers-

Another New Job

2008-06-10T12:56:00.000+08:00

A service crew at Cedele. That's my new job.

It's the first day of work, and I kind of like my new job. Learn a bit of everything today. It'll take some time before I can manage the lunch time crowd at the sandwich/coffee bar. I'm more of a runner today cos I am still unfamiliar with the products. Heh, I'll probably create a helluva mess if they allow me to handle the food during lunch time. =p. The people are nice enough and the food is awesome enough. =)

Some people are nagging about how little the pay ($4.50/hr) is but oh well,I am working to gain the experience. Anyway, I would probably 'waste' my time idling or thinking too much if I've so much time in my hands.

Last

2008-05-24T04:11:00.000+08:00

thank you S32...

and the cake with 'unblowable' candles too...

last day of work as a full time economics relief teacher. I didn't expect myself to feel so sad.

Has it really come to an end already? So quickly? Really? Or did someone offended Time? He decided to be angry and punish us by fast forwarding itself?

-tears-

Somehow, I can't bare to leave....

Happy Cake for the Teachers..

2008-05-21T22:46:00.000+08:00

Then & Now

2008-05-20T17:49:00.000+08:00

Last time, I'm responsible for myself. It is my own acadmic result at stake. Now, I'm responsible to many other people. And it is their academic (thus result) at stake.

So, that's why I should press on.

-continue marking-

TPJC College Day

2008-05-18T14:45:00.000+08:00

College day 2008!

Nono, no teacher duties, attended the event as a prize winner. But nothing compared to Ms Fui San and Ms Joyce =p My prize is tiny prize but anyhow, the company was awesome. Turning round to smile at Godma (Mrs C. Koh) was warm and fuzzy =p

Reception was not bad lah! =p

Joyce, Lao Shi & I =)

Econs Pro - H1 & H2 Econs prize winners!

Student of the Year =)

Joyce =)

Amantha =)

Amantha turns 19

2008-05-17T14:00:00.000+08:00

I had a memorable birthday this year.

Thank you A05, for the pleasant surprise. I'm touched. (but hey, i feel really cheated too okie! >.<) In anycase, thank you for the sweet gesture. Thank you for creating such beautiful memories and making my stay in TPJC as a teacher an extremely memorable one. (but please ah, study hard for SA!!! 4 more days to go.)

Thank you relief teachers, (Joyce, Fui San, Cheryl, Fatimah, Petrina) for initiating a b'day celebration in the pantry with my ex-tutors. Thank you. It's really sweet! And thank you to all my teachers who came. =)

Thank you to all who remembered, Thank you to all the msges and well wishes!

Thank you Miss Young, for tolerating, for being nice, for helping.

Thank you, Mummy, for everything.

SALSA FEVER!

thank you A05...love you guys to bits! =)

Young Young teachers =)

smiles

I hope I dance.

Happy B'day to Kenneth aka Mr Fish

2008-05-02T14:59:00.001+08:00

Sport's Day

2008-05-01T13:34:00.001+08:00

It's very odd!
When I was still a student in TPJC (which was not very long ago =p ) Sport's day is really bored and draggy.

But now, today...as a teacher, it's SUPER funz!
The novelty games...running around in my 'student attire', taking pictures etc.

Andand, I think the cheerleading groups were very, very awesome!
Especially thw Hawks formed together by A05 and S32! You guys rockZ! =)

Pictures...erm Young didn't share =(

Taking An Alternative Route.

2008-04-30T13:01:00.000+08:00

Perhaps, perhaps this is the consequences I have to bear. For every choice one made, we know it comes with consquences.

So if study is not everything and if I will be left behind, what am I going to do to craft out a path for myself?

How do I remain happy while at the same time, be able to support myself, family and more when I grow up? If that piece of paper is so important, then how did those without survive? Why did I even bother to push myself through those days and nights when it was so hard at that point of time?

I don't want to conform. Life isn't meant 'lived' this way. We need to break free from the society stigma.

I am a teacher, but I am not all knowing.

My Symphony

2008-04-28T15:51:00.000+08:00

"To live content with small means; to seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion; to be worthy, not respectable, and wealthy, not, rich; to listen to stars and birds, babes and sages, with open heart; to study hard; to think quietly, act frankly, talk gently, await occasions, hurry never; in a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through the common--this is my symphony."

-William Henry Channing-

Teacher-ing

2008-04-24T09:23:00.000+08:00

I refused to comment.

We all meet with road blocks somehow.

Newspaper Collection

2008-04-20T10:27:00.000+08:00

with A05 and Ms Wendy Lee!

It was kind of tiring, but the company was awesome. Oh well, I didn't do much, the students did. Plenty.

Ms Chong Does Not Like Scolding Students >.<

2008-04-08T01:31:00.003+08:00

I really dislike to lose my cool in class. I hate it when I have to punish students. I really do not like to reprimand students. I definitely don't enjoy being sarcastic.

Really. I am not fierce. I don't want to be. So come in punctually. Do your tutorials. Pay attention in class. Stop being so talkative. It's all for you own good, really. I've been through where you guys are now just barely 2 years ago, I know. I really do. I can put myself in YOUR shoes. It is tough, but it's worth the effort.

We have our fair share of laughs, so when it comes to work, please be serious about it too.

I want to help you people, I don't hate you guys, I don't discriminate you folks and I don't judge you based on your result. I don't. So please, be nice. Not for anyone else, but yourself.

That's all. Period.

I miss being a student

2008-03-30T12:52:00.001+08:00

As I sit here trying to clear the pile of scripts, I wish so badly that I can go back to school as a student again. As I sit here working on a Saturday night while listening to the familiar music which I used to play when i'm studying, I realized how badly I miss the studying days. I miss the daily routine. The routine of going to school, having lunch with Kael & Yun / Kael & Eunice...sometimes with the class, catching power naps in between lessons, mugging away at the E block benches. The routine of getting home, eat, bath, study, coffee, study, sleep. I even miss the 'drag of going to class', having to discipline myself to keep on track, having to push away all distraction and emotional problems, and the list goes on...

Instead of essays waiting for me to mark, I wish it's essays waiting for me to attempt. I miss formal schooling. Lots.

Perhaps it's because the little girl in me is screaming again - 'I don't want to grow up, I really don't, please don't force me to.' as quoted from the Young One's Xanga....

S15 BBQ

2008-03-15T14:19:00.000+08:00

As lovely and funz as ever!

March Holidays - day 2

2008-03-12T14:41:00.000+08:00

Second day of the holiday was well spent. =) -claps for self-

I really enjoy having breakfast with Young Friend at 85. It's always so nice, warm and fuzzy. =D Yesterday, her mummy and granny joined us too! I seem to be talking to her mum more these days. =D

The morning was spent in the main staffroom doing work. Lunch was not really awesome but the company (my Young Friend) was awesome. Hee. I still can't really get use to her new hairstyle. =p

She's just so pretty and smart. Everything that I ever wanted to be. =p
No reflection. My brain cells have been drained. Just blabberings of my day to day activities.
In anycase, I am thankful to Young Friend that she is always nice to me.

Venturing into Unexplored Grounds =)

2008-03-11T01:36:00.000+08:00

I attended my FIRST dance lesson in 18 years! YAY!

Although it was mainly on stretching and basic steps, I'm loving it to bits. Like it that i'm working out my muscles. =D Awesome. =)

Amantha can't wait for the next Intro to Jazz lesson!

Salsa starts in April! I'm so loving my life! =D

My Turn for Result Day

2008-03-08T18:38:00.000+08:00

All the anxiety and agony have finally come to an end.
A B E - the the ideal grades

Till now, I don't know if i'm happy or sad. Perhaps, I really don't know how to count my blessings. Maybe it's time to learn to do so.

I have aims and goals. I know what I want to do in life now and in the future. I know which path I want to take, which career I want to embark on. I know what I want, what I can, what I lack, what I need, what I have to learn. I just need to be given the chance to be admitted into the course of my choice. I need the opportunity to fulfill my dreams. Please let my dream come true.
As they have influenced me, let me be of influence to the rest too.

We teach who we are.

Dear students, please be much more diligent than I was. It is worthy to slog now, really.

S15 @ starbucks

2008-03-01T13:23:00.000+08:00

To all my PAE students...

2008-02-22T14:39:00.001+08:00

Hey people, i will miss you all. Take care.

'It's not where you are that matters, it's who you are that matters the most.'

Smile, always.

TPJC PAE 08S20
Though you guys gets on my nerves for always being so talkative in class, I do enjoy the little funz we have here and there. You guys are smart, just need to be more hardworking!

TPJC PAE 08S15

For all the fun and laughters, I thank you all. Elmo SONG!

TPJC PAE 08A02

The Bimbos! =) Hope to see most of you in my class in JAE!

TPJC PAE 08S09

You guys reminded me of my PAE class, 06S09. Thank you. =)

To All me PAE Students cum Friends =)

2008-02-22T14:39:00.000+08:00

Hey people, i will miss you all.

Take care.

'It's not where you are that matters, it's who you are that matters the most.'

Smile, always!

S15 Outing Again! =)

2008-02-16T17:14:00.000+08:00

Yay! Supper with S15 dudes! yumyum!

Foodies @ Downtown East

Laughs

Line up Line up

(I can't remember what we were doing?!)

Snickers & Mars Bar Ice Creams =D

Happy!

Happy V'day!

2008-02-15T09:45:00.000+08:00

Durning morning assembly today, I was reminded of 06S08, my JC class. =)

I remembered almost EVERYONE ( or in fact everyone ) prepared a little gift for everyone else. =) It was so sweet!

Happy V'day to all out there.
And many thanks to my students who showered me with sweet gestures. =)
Thanks A02 bimbos! For the Piggy PlayDough and flowers!

Btw, I'm addicted to sculpturing balloons!

From Ms Sim Fatimah

For Young & Ross

From A02 =)

From Lao Shi =)

Miss Chong? & CNY'08

2008-02-06T21:35:00.000+08:00

I'm not used to being tapped on the shoulders out of the bluez when i'm shopping. It's funny, how i keep running into students when I'm out shopping with friends since I started teaching. (which is barely a month ago!).

Sis (Yingmin) did a great job in 'advertising' my current occupation to all who walked pass us at Far East yesterday. I was so embarassed! I'd purposely brought clothing to change after school so i blend into the crowd (you know, like a normal teenager kind of dress sense instead of the teacher-ish style) but I guess the plan backfired when those passer-by stare at me with strange and curious looks. Those expression that goes, "She? A teacher? -raise eyebrows-".

But anyway, I've been getting my fair share of fun after waitressing 2-3 of my weekends away. =)

Today, I made myself scarce when the students were giving oranges towards the end of the CNY concert in the hall. I think that it 'feels' totally wrong to be receiving oranges from someone 1 or 2 years younger. I was kind of thinking of the 'olden days' during the concert. Cos I realized I've no lunch buddy. I'm in the same place, 'doing' the same thing, but Kael, Banana & the rest aren't ard. If they were around, we'd probably have a lunch outing after concert. It's different, the days when I was still a student...compared to now.

I miss being a student. Let's switch role dear students! =p

Many Little Talks...

2008-02-05T00:36:00.000+08:00

New timetable, new classes, new students. Would hope that i'll have a pleasant 'journey' with these new students. To the PAE students 'under my care' for econs, thank you for the wonderful memories. Remember, 'It's not where you are that matters, but who you are that matters the most'.

I'm enjoying driving lessons plenty!

Waitressing is getting tiresome and irritating at the new workplace. But, well, I won't quit now. (I just work less hours =p)

Life is full of happenings these days. Everyday is new & exciting cos' each day, there's at least an activity that I look forward to doing. I don't find it a chore, or deprived simply becos' I've such a packed schedule. My main purpose after the 'A' levels, is to expose myself to as much new things as possible, to gather more experiences, learn more, and thus, grow in maturity. I love the kind of lifestyle i'm have now, but still, I want to keep my glass. It's so comfy in here.

Appreciation

2008-01-26T16:11:00.000+08:00

I want to thank my students, for the words of appreciation and encouragement. =) You people rOcK my world!

Night out with S15 =)

2008-01-24T17:15:00.000+08:00

Hectic day. Mood plunge right down.

But thanks 08S15, for the wonderful fellowship over dinner...and the night out at pasir ris park. =) I enjoyed myself tons. Thanks to the Young one too. I will you guys..a lot.

Yayness @ Pasir Ris Park!

Rachelle & Christopher

Valentine. Really? =p

Us on the SPIDERS!

Peter & Jeck An

Silin & Kenneth the Fish.

Peter

Young & I @ Blk 85. (Me with my Hamburger face=p)

More of Teaching & Waitressing

2008-01-23T12:39:00.000+08:00

Although I felt really out of place on the first day of 'work', it feels good to be 'working' in a familiar environment with familiar faces. I love my 'job'! The students are really nice and I'm glad (and relief) that they understand what I've taught. Talking to them about my experience, learning more about them when I have a chance to talk to them before or after class, joking with them (be it lame or funny jokes), and discussing questions that sometimes lead to even more questions...etc.

It feels really great when you know your students gain something from your lesson. Yes, there has been a few times when I feel lousy for not being able to get the concept across, but I'm thankful that the students still treat me with 'respect'. Perhaps not really as a teacher, but a mentor. I'm especially thankful to the repeat students for 'accepting' me as a teacher. -grin-I'm sharing freely here, because I don't see the need of having to hide these thoughts from my students who might have stumbled across this blog. It's a pity that i couldn't join the A02 Bimbos for waffles yesterday. Wonder if S09 (-claps-) would like to visit the waffle shop together tml. =)I'm so gonna miss these 4 classes of students when they leave. (which is in a couple of days' time..)

Preparing for lessons, compiling extra assignments, quiz and all have been pretty enjoyable too. While I prepare, I revise what I've learnt. In fact, teaching 4 classes = teaching and going through the same concepts and worksheets 4 times per week. It's a really good way to revise and even prepare for an exam. =)

Thinking on the spot when a student poses a question is really new to me. But so far, so good. =D

The teachers whom I've known during my JC days, and the teachers whom I've never talked to during my JC days, are all really great people! They're fun, filled with passion and zest, friendly and sometimes even playful! =) I thank them for the jokes and laughter, the conversations, the fellowship over lunch and breakfast, the advice and tips they share. It feels wonderful to be one of them. =)

I guess the really good thing about this 'job' is that I don't treat it like a job. I wonder if I would bear to leave this job when the time comes for me to switch back to a student's life again. =(

Then how about waitressing? Yes, the pay is pathetic. But I'm waitressing for experience and exposure, not for the money. So I'm pretty fine with the money part. $5 per hours. First day of work was pretty 'fun' in the sense that for the first time, I'm serving people in a restaurant, not vice versa. =P

Driving has been good. BTT in a week's time. =)Japanese lang. lesson is ok. We'll see how it goes in the subsequent lessons.

So now my schedule is finally filled again.
Apart from teaching on weekdays, I waitress on Fri nights, Sats, and Sunday nights.
Sunday morning is reserved for Jap. Lang. lesson.
Weekday nights are reserved for driving lesson and meeting up with friends for dinner.

I guess that's me. I need a life that has a packed schedule. =)

Saying Goodbye

2008-01-22T14:29:00.000+08:00

"Life is pleasant. Death is peaceful. It's the transition that is troublesome"

Yes, it's true that when we know someone died, it's saddening. But when we hear of someone young died, it's even more saddening. Today, a JC2 student in school passed away. =(

Good bye, guy. Hope you rest really well.

I guess I'm acquired to discussing topics related to death.
But one thing is for sure, the pain lingers on with the wound that never heals. Perhaps because I didn't give it a chance to, but -shrug-. It's not easy to 'delete' memories.

I miss them. a lot.

Fly me up to where you are, beyond the distant star.
I wish upon tonight, to see you smile.
If only for a while know you're there,
A breath away, is not far, to where you are.

Teaching

2008-01-22T14:26:00.000+08:00

I'm into my second week of teaching, and i'm still loving it!

I teach econs, but i learn much more than econs. =)

Waitressing was kind of fun, ha ha. =D
I am so gonna STOP worrying about the 'A' level result. >.<

Teaching AND Learning

2008-01-18T06:33:00.000+08:00

I don't see what i'm doing now as working. I don't feel as if i'm working. I don't find it a chore.Time passes really quickly, especially on days when my timetable is pretty packed. Just glad that i'm spending my time constructively. I enjoy the time in the classroom, teaching and interacting with the students. Other than some little problems here and there (e.g. a noisy class / hiccups in the timetable), I'm kind of 'addicted' to teaching already! =D

I teach Economics, but the students teach me MORE than Economics.

Yup, sounds good isn't it? Probably because i'm not taking the full workload of a teacher (e.g. admin stuff), that's why i don't feel so stress up and all. It's weird to have your teachers as your colleagues. But i'm thankful that it is so. Familiar faces, familiar environment. =)

Back to School II

2008-01-12T13:25:00.000+08:00

Today is so exciting.

Discovery 1 : The Young One is pretty good at jogging.
Discovery 2 : Being a teacher in TPJC is vastly different from being a student in TPJC.

I'm so gonna flood my staffroom table with Little Friends. =DOh, my timetable is pretty crazy as compared to the rest, but I kind of like it. =) Young and I are teaching the same classesSSs. Hee.

Way to go!

Crushing School =p

2008-01-09T11:20:00.000+08:00

=)

I totally enjoyed myself today!

Back to TPJC in HSCS uniform. Back to the auditorium. Back to Biology Lecture. Back to the canteen. Meeting the teachers, meeting the old friends, meeting the juniors.

I was thinking to myself, this is so fun. When I step into my Econs classes next week, the students might just get confused! =p "Isn't she the Hai Sing gal at biology lecture?' haha

Thanks gaLs, for agreeing to my crazy idea. =) And thanks teachers, hope we have given you a pleasant surprise!

The Biology teachers and us after the lecture =)

We caught hold of Mdm Rabiah during our 'break'.

We spotted new coloured walls in the classroom!

Model Student VS Delinquent