 Teaching In Korea; New Experiences, New Opportunities |
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Amirah Nash
(Seoul Namsa Elementary School) |
It’s hard to believe that it has already been 3 months since I packed my things and moved across the world to teach English in Korea. It seems that time is flying by because I’m just having too much fun! Even normal activities, like grocery shopping, banking, and paying bills, are a completely different experience. I can honestly say that I am having the time of my life so far learning new things, meeting new people, and trying to become an even better teacher.
I am currently the sole native English teacher at Seoul Namsa Elementary School in Sadang-dong. I have three awesome co-teachers who have helped me get acclimated to living in Korea and teaching in our school as a subject teacher. They are always available to answer the many questions that I have and I honestly don’t know where I would be without them. I teach 3rd through 6th grades, which means that I teach almost 500 students each week. Although I’m still struggling to learn names, I definitely enjoy teaching throughout the grades and seeing the unique energy that each grade and class brings to the classroom.
Teaching English in Korea has helped me to better understand the kind of teacher that I am, as well as to visualize the kind of teacher that I would like to be. The first time I stepped into the Korean classroom, I made a bunch of mistakes. I spoke too fast, my students didn’t fully understand what I was saying, and I ran out of time. However, each class was an opportunity to improve something from the previous class, and by the end of the day, I was feeling much more comfortable. Each day was another chance to become better, and over time I’ve learned not to be so afraid of making mistakes because they’re just hidden learning opportunities. I’m learning the importance of speaking slower, using simple English, and making my directions precise and concise. I also realize how important and exciting it is for students when I bring my life and culture into the classroom, as they’re truly curious about me and where I’m from.
Just as I’m learning how to bring more of myself into the classroom, I’m learning more about Korea and Korean culture from my students and co-teachers. My students are so excited when they can teach me new Korean words or help me with my Korean pronunciation. No kidding, if I say even the smallest thing in Korean, I’m met with lots of applause and encouragement. I experienced my first Sports Day, which consisted of all of the students participating in different races and games, as well as dance, taekwondo, and flag performances. It was super fun, and I was even a part of a relay race and had to run to the finish line with some of my students! I enjoyed Pepero Day and received many boxes of yummy Pepero from my students. My co-teachers also give me great suggestions for fun things to do over the weekend or on holidays, like visiting the palaces or going to the Seoul Lantern Festival.
So, after 3 months in Korea, I can say that each day is not perfect. However, if I continue to keep an open mind and look at each experience as an opportunity to learn or try something different, I know that I will continue to grow and have a great time.
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(Seoul Namsa Elementary School)
So, after 3 months in Korea, I can say that each day is not perfect. However, if I continue to keep an open mind and look at each experience as an opportunity to learn or try something different, I know that I will continue to grow and have a great time.