From Scribbles on Grandpa’s Wall to Classrooms in Japan: My Unexpected Journey into Education

From Scribbles on Grandpa’s Wall to Classrooms in Japan: My Unexpected Journey into Education

I always say my teaching journey didn’t begin in a classroom—it started with a crayon and my grandpa’s wall. I was that kid who turned everything into pretend play. My friends and I would set up class, and guess who was always the teacher? Yup, me! I remember scribbling lessons on every surface I could find, especially my grandpa’s walls (sorry, Grandpa!). He was furious at the time, but looking back, those scribbles were early signs of a passion too big to be boxed in.

Then came church. People at my church quickly noticed something—how easily I connected with kids, how much I enjoyed being around them. Before I knew it, I was made an Adventurer Leader at just 16, guiding little ones between the ages of 4 to 9. That trust they placed in me, at such a young age, helped shape the person I am today. Later on, I stepped into the role of a Pathfinder Instructor, and honestly? I thrived. I loved every second of it.

Now, here’s the plot twist…

You’d think I went straight into education, right?

Nope.

I actually studied Human Resources Management first in university—surprise! I guess working with people and leading has always been in my DNA, even before I knew what to do with it.

Eventually, the calling became too loud to ignore. I went on to pursue a Post-grad in Education, and that’s when my journey as a professional educator truly began.

But just before that official step into the classroom, during my university breaks, I had the amazing opportunity to visit my parents in Qatar. While there, I worked as a Teaching Assistant at Sherborne British School—and let me tell you, it was eye-opening! I worked with students from all over the world, each with unique backgrounds, cultures, and learning styles. That experience expanded my worldview and made me realize how diverse and dynamic education could be. It wasn’t just about delivering content—it was about connection, understanding, and adaptability. It sparked something deeper in me and opened my mind to endless possibilities within the field of education.

My first official job?

A high school business management teacher.

I still smile thinking about those students. I was the youngest teacher at a massive school, and the bond I built with those teens was magical. They appreciated me for being relatable, for listening, and for making learning feel like a shared adventure, not just a lecture.

From there, I became an Academic and Administrative Assistant at a preschool—where I didn’t just teach, I learned. I got an inside look into how a school runs, what makes learning environments effective, and how leadership plays a crucial role in shaping young minds. I worked closely with directors, contributed ideas, and gained priceless insight into early childhood education.

Then came one of the most heartwarming roles I’ve had: a toddler teacher.

Whew. That role taught me real patience, a nurturing spirit, and how to understand children’s needs on a deeper level. And if you ask me, those are the core ingredients of a great educator.

Fast forward to now, I’m living in Japan, embracing a new chapter as an ALT (Assistant Language Teacher). I work with students from elementary to junior high school, and while it was challenging at first, I’ve slowly found my rhythm. New culture, new systems, new language—but same me, same love for kids, same passion for teaching.

What helps me adapt?

All the experiences I’ve collected along the way. Every student I’ve taught, every school I’ve worked at, every challenge I’ve overcome—it all adds up.

People often ask, “Why education?”

And my answer is simple: the smiles. The way students beam when they finally understand something. The way they run up to share their stories, jokes, and dreams. The way they write "Thank you!" at the end of a lesson. That’s why.

We live in a world where being an educator is often underrated, overshadowed by flashier careers. But the truth is—educators are architects of society. We help shape the future, one child at a time.

So today, I’m celebrating this journey—every messy wall, every tiny classroom chair, every lesson taught and learned.

"Teachers plant the seeds of knowledge, grow forests of confidence, and shape the landscape of the future."

Here’s to the calling that found me, shaped me, and continues to inspire me every day.