Facing Fear and Challenge

We only learn how to do something by trying it. The first time trying a new experience is often stressful but also a menmorable learning experience. In our Teaching Artistry course I invited teachers to recollect their first day teaching.

Facing the First Lesson: Stories of Challenge and Growth

Starting a teaching career often begins with a mixture of nerves, excitement, and unexpected challenges. In our recent Teaching Artistry course discussion, teachers shared vivid memories of their first lessons, offering a glimpse into the emotional rollercoaster of those early experiences. Here’s a snapshot of their reflections:

The Highs of Preparation and Success

For some, preparation was key to confidence. Alena Maksakova, for instance, spent an entire summer meticulously planning her university lessons. “Fortunately, my hard work paid off, and the first lesson went smoothly,” she shared. Her reflection highlighted the importance of balancing rigorous content delivery with fostering emotional connections.

Similarly, Norah Alotaibi’s first experience teaching IELTS involved intense preparation under pressure. “I learned that I have the capabilities to work under pressure and manage my time well,” she reflected, emphasizing the pride that came from overcoming challenges.

The Lows of Overwhelm and Self-Doubt

Others faced immediate struggles. Nada Kataw described walking into a chaotic classroom with no training, where students shouted and cursed. “It was a horrible experience,” she admitted, even jokingly asking her father how long she had to work before retirement. Over time, though, she built strong relationships with her students, a testament to persistence and growth.

Barbara Shchuka recounted being thrown into teaching phonetics during her final year of university with no prior experience or guidance. “I was overwhelmed and frustrated,” she said, though she ultimately found joy in teaching through trial and error, solidifying her passion for the profession.

Unforgettable Lessons in Adaptability

For many, adaptability was crucial. Pelin Karag?z realized mid-lesson that her young students didn’t understand modal verbs, prompting her to switch to body language and Total Physical Response (TPR). “It was a turning point,” she shared, underscoring the importance of reading the room and adjusting on the fly.

Yaprak Yilmaz Gardner Harley faced the unique challenge of teaching English to Kurdish-speaking students with limited Turkish. “I didn’t know their language, and they didn’t understand mine,” she recalled. This “tragicomic” experience left her reflecting on what she could have done differently, a process that continues to shape her teaching today.

Moments of Humility and Connection

Tugce Ugras faced a daunting room of adults as a young, inexperienced substitute teacher. She found that humility, humor, and a willingness to connect bridged the gap. “By the end of the lesson, we were all on the same page,” she said, describing how her nerves gave way to a sense of belonging.

Discussion Questions

These stories remind us that teaching is as much about learning as it is about imparting knowledge. Here are some questions to consider:

• What strategies can help teachers prepare for their first lessons, especially in challenging contexts?
• How do you adapt when a lesson doesn’t go as planned?
• What did your first teaching experience teach you about yourself as an educator?

By sharing our stories, we can inspire each other to embrace the unpredictability of teaching and grow through every experience. Share your thoughts or your own “first lesson” memory in the comments!