By Arnav Bansal (Grade 9)
Laughter, heartwarming “Eureka!” moments and infectious enthusiasm are characteristics of Ms. Gunjan’s class. Looking back at them, one remembers not only the concepts she taught, but the passion for learning that she instils in her students. This week's spotlight is on Ms. Gunjan, who is IBDP coordinator for the batch of ‘25!
When asked what flavour best describes her journey as teacher, Ms. Gunjan replied “My teaching journey has been very sweet, so I think my favourite flavour of ice-cream, mango, would suit it most”. Ms. Gunjan, born and brought up in Haryana, has been in our school for 9 years. Completing her Master of Science in Biotechnology and Molecular Biology, she began her journey with TISB as a Senior School Biology teacher, then proceeding to become the Grade 6 coordinator. Since then, she became the Grade 7 & 8 Coordinator, IGCSE coordinator, and has become an IB coordinator this year. Wow! What a journey!
What inspired you to become a teacher?
“I was always passionate about learning and imparting knowledge. My teachers had an integral role in shaping my life and character, and I always wanted to do the same for my students.”
Since teacher’s day was this week, let’s take a moment to honour the role every teacher plays in their student's development. No matter how small, every action in the classroom inevitably has a profound, and indelible impact on a student, and as Ms. Gunjan puts it:
“Teachers influence their students with every interaction. They have the power to change their students and lead them to the right path. They act as guides and mentors, while being someone students can go to advice for at the same time.”
Indeed, a teacher's impact on a student's life is the catalyst that transforms curiosity into wisdom and dreams into achievements. And there can be no greater moment of pride for a teacher than when they get to see these achievements, watching their students blossom in surprising ways. Ms. Gunjan says: “I have seen this happen almost every year. A few students work quietly through the year and deliver surprise performance at the end of the year. Recently, the Teachers’ Day performance by my Grade 11 students really made me proud.”
Kudos to all the students who participated in the Teacher’s Day assembly!
About the core values she aims to depart on her students, Ms. Gunjan said:
“I aim to instil the values of hard work, discipline and persistence in my students. They should never give up in anything they try to do, because if you give your all to something, you get better at it, and with consistent efforts, you eventually attain expertise in that thing.”
Furthermore, Ms. Gunjan aims to foster a sense of community and collaboration in her students.
“I strive to create an interactive environment with my students and build a good rapport with them. Discussing various topics and problems with my students assists them in better understanding of the topics.”
It was a pleasure to talk to you Ms. Gunjan! Below is a message from Gauri, who recently graduated as part of the batch of ‘23.
Hi Ms Gunjan. I am very grateful for your constant kindness and support. I’ve learned a lot, thanks to your advice, which has helped me grow as a person. Thank you for never giving up on me and always supporting me. Thank you for all that you do. You truly make a difference in your students' lives!
Love,
Gauri
Finally, we asked Ms. Gunjan what the theme song of her classroom would be!
“Living in The Moment”. Often, we think too much about the past/future and miss out on today.
Quick Q&A
Everyone has a unique talent or hobby outside of their teaching life. What's your hidden talent or hobby, and have you ever incorporated it into your teaching?
I love listening to Punjabi folk songs.
In the world of teaching, what's the most bizarre or quirky item you keep in your desk or classroom, and does it have a story behind it?
I keep a box of peanut chikkis on my desk for my students to munch on when they visit me in my office.
Comments