Student bondingAmina Farooqui Teacher Pakistan International School, Jeddah Being a doctor was the aim of my life. I opted science in high school and even got my name on the merit list of Medical College in Nawabshah. It was far away from my home city so traveling alone every day wasn't considered feasible. It was not in my fate to be a doctor so the second option I considered was to become a teacher. Teaching was my passion; I always loved helping my siblings with their studies which in turn helped me in mine. The love and care provided by my teachers and continuous support of my parents made me what I am today. It has been 24 years now, but each day is as new and fresh as the first. Each day has so many memories, and to be honest I would have left the profession if only I would not have been enjoying it. Students look so adorable when they share their problems with me whether it is related to studies or home. I learned a lot in the process of solving their problems. I always wanted my students to feel comfortable with me, take me as one of them and not treat me like a stranger. I gave my students what they needed and did not force them to do something. I remember a very smart girl in grade five; three years back I used to call her Dr. Ayesha. I was narrating the story of a person who was so sick that he was not even able to lift his pupil, and I told the kids that it is only Allah with whose will a person can be cured and become healthy again. Dr. Ayesha raised her hand and asked me a question. She said that why didn't the sick person take black seeds as they have a cure for everything according to a Hadith. Her question confounded me yet it made me happy knowing the amount of attention she paid in class. Meeting with old students makes me feel alive. The brightness in their eyes emanates happiness and it keeps me going. Teaching has given me pleasure and satisfaction. Life should be all about gaining and giving away knowledge. Parents particularly should pay attention to their child exploring their hidden talents. They should take proper care of their diet as they depend on them and if not it will inhibit the child's abilities making it difficult for the kid to be himself. Learn about your kids; take care of them and their activities. Make them read books as it triggers creativity. TRIBUTE - "I was 12 when Amina Farooqui taught me Science. She did not only teach me that particular subject, but gave me enough confidence to take part in all sorts of activities. It was because of her that I reached the stage without stage-fright. She is a true explorer of student's abilities and an amazing motivator. Thank you Maam." As told to Nisma Rafiq
