The Most Important Lesson by Ai Ana

The Most Important Lesson by Ai Ana - July 2016 Scholarship Essay

I just graduated from a rural school tucked between the mountains and rugged coastline. My teachers have taught me a plethora of knowledge-- everything from conjugating French verbs to designing algae bioreactors to struggling with AP Chemistry equations. They’ve taught me all of these practical skills, but they’ve also taught me about how to be a good person; how to listen and empathize, how to encourage and be respectful. My teachers have shown me the importance of humor, flexibility, and love. They nurture talents and passions, encourage dreams and ideas, and interact with their students beyond just the subject they teach, whether it be telling stories about their pets or introducing you to their son.

My science teacher has mastered the art of being a good listener. She is willing to hear about my struggles and offer advice and consolation. This is not in regards for me alone. I’ve witnessed everyone from sixth to twelfth grade come and talk to her about being bullied or the amount of homework the English teacher assigns or how frustrating our school system is. She’s really taught me about the importance of being able to empathize and connect with anyone of any age and that every trouble is worth listening to. She’s also willing to laugh at her students and herself. Students do a lot of hilarious things and she’s not afraid to stop and laugh with the rest of the classroom or poke fun at herself.

My English teacher has encouraged me and nurtured my passion for writing. He suggested I write a novel based off a paper I’d written for him, a project that took two full years to finish. He met with me once a week; reading over my work, suggesting books, and supporting me when I got dismayed and frustrated. His flexibility to let me pursue something I care deeply about has made an impact on me. His respect for students is also something I really admire. He treats us like adults; we’re capable of responsibility and hard work but simultaneously understanding that adolescence is tough and that we have a lot to deal with. He understands if you were up all night studying for an AP exam and can’t really participate in a discussion, or that you’re struggling with something at home and can’t turn something in on time. His respect, compassion, and flexibility has affected how I interact with others.

Something else I’ve learned from my teachers is how to interact with others in a professional but relatable way. My science teacher doesn’t only talk about endoplasmic reticulums and Bohr’s law. She tells us stories about her husband and her kids, about her cats and college adventures. My English teacher doesn’t only talk about Hemingway and anthropomorphism. He tells us stories about the business he used to run, about his woodworking, his funny wife, and his dumb dogs. They relate to their students on both a professional and a personal level. I really admire that quality of balancing professionalism and respect while also maintaining a friendship.

Overall, my teachers have taught me so much more than writing a novel and how to define stage four of the demographic transition. I’ve learned how to relate to others and how to express compassion and encouragement. I’ve learned about hard work and dedication, because the long nights grading papers and dealing with ornery students isn’t fun. I’ve learned how to be respectful, flexible, and how to listen. I’ve learned that no trouble is too small to listen to and about the importance of humor. I’ve learned that if you work hard and strive to be a good person, you'll end up happy. That has been my teacher’s most important lesson.