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

I work as a science teacher in Hippocampus Vidhya Vaibhav Public school. My career started as a teacher. After I completed my master's in microbiology, I worked as a lecturer in a college. After my marriage, I took a break of 20 years so I could take care of my family. However, two years ago, I re-started my career again. Teaching is my passion. My father was also a teacher and I love teaching.

About my school...

Hippocampus VVPS is in Mathikere, Karnataka, which is an urban area. This school was established 20 years ago.

My teaching experience...

I teach science to students in grade six and seven. But I also assist the science teachers that teach grades eight, nine and ten in lab activities.

My approach to teaching...

I believe it is important to make sure that all students are focused on what’s being taught in class. It is natural for some of them that their attention wanders. I keep a close eye, and if I spot that in a student, I grab their attention by asking a question to make sure they have been following along. The point is not to embarrass them but re-engage them. Because if they follow what is being taught in class, that’s 50% of their studies done! I believe that a teacher needs to make sure that all students participate in class.

My role models...

My role model is the professor who taught microbiology when I was doing my master’s degree. His teaching style was such that even today I remember everything I learnt in his classes. He had a calm, peaceful demeanor which I think engaged the students’ attention.

My father, who was also a teacher, is my other role model. He also had a very calm demeanor. When I was growing up, he would never scold me even if I did something wrong. He would always want me to think about what I did. He clearly made a lasting impression on his students. Even today, my father’s past students visit him or send him felicitations on occasions like teacher’s day.

The other person who has been great deal of support for me in my career is this school’s trustee.

My interests outside of teaching...

Art is my hobby. I like to draw in my spare time. I have a certificate from government arts institute. I also teach art at my school to first graders.  It is fun for me to do that. I used to be a girl guide when I was young and received the Karnataka Rajya Puraskar, which is the highest honor awarded to scouts and guides.

My experience with Aikyam...

According to me, Aikyam is a very good program for the children. The children are learning about real-world issues outside of their school and responding to it, like what to do about stray dogs on the streets and smoke pollution. I am impressed by their thinking and the way they ask questions when interviewing members of the community. Activities like Daily Pondering are great for the children, although not all the children practice it. The ones that do practice are engaging their family members, neighbors, and relatives in the activity as well.