My background and what inspired me to become a teacher...

I didn't join the profession by choice. It was by chance. I've done my master's in physical sciences from Mysore University and additional course in teaching. The principal at this school offered me this job even without experience. I am grateful for that.

I teach physical sciences to students in grade 6 to 10.

I am also a coordinator at the school responsible for non-academic activities like sports.

My experience as a teacher...

It's been just two years that I have been working as a teacher. But now that I am one, I love it. I miss my students even on weekends. At the end of the day, I feel a great sense of satisfaction knowing that I can transfer the knowledge I acquired to my students. And to learn from the students. There’s joy and happiness in that feeling. I've heard feedback from the students, and parents as well,

that they apply the knowledge outside of school – in their home, with their neighbors.

I am inspired by...

I am influenced a lot by a mathematics teacher I had in higher secondary school, grades 8 through 10. My passion for teaching has a lot to do with how she communicated and interacted with her students – with ease, encouragement, and even respect. She taught us to be confident. And with that, our grades improved as well. I think she's been a strong influencer and role model for many.

About my school...

I'm currently working in Malnad at the Hippocampus International School. It was established seven years ago. The academics and the curriculum we follow is superb. The school uses several learning tools and methods like audio-visual aids and activity-based learning in teaching all subjects. And additional programs like the Aikyam Club and more. The school is in the heart of Malnad, Karnataka, which an urban city.

My experience with Aikyam...

When I first heard about Aikyam, I looked up the meaning of the word. It means harmony, unity, a sense of oneness. I was impressed by that. And wanted to be a part of it. Aikyam has created a sense of confidence in our students - to be creative and to think critically as individuals and as a group. Activities like Daily Pondering are super beneficial to them. They now look at every aspect of their daily lives, the pros, and the cons. And they share their observations with others.

They are tackling societal problems with other students and facilitators, like, unemployment. They discuss with their parents also and they look for solutions with their parents. I think parents are seeing some improvement in their children and see that they can speak confidently outside in the public.

My students’ experience with Aikyam...

In the beginning I used to push them to go up and speak because they were not used to it. But now, it’s different. They are confident enough to speak. They can exchange their ideas. They are coming up with solutions. And I should say that even the introverts in our team are now speaking with confidence. The students will be eagerly waiting for Aikyam sessions. They keep asking us when the next meeting is. Because they are thinking about solutions in their heads all the time. And discussing them with each other. Even in their leisure time. I think that their enthusiasm has gone up a lot.