Life has its twists and turns. Do you believe that? I certainly do. How about you?
Here’s my story: I began my journey as an Assistant Professor in 2010, with my first interview at
Zantye College of Commerce and Economics. After completing my M.A., I was eagerly searching for a
teaching job. I spent entire days browsing through newspapers, applying for various positions as an
Assistant Professor of Economics. I submitted applications without knowing if I would succeed in my
f
irst interview or not. Becoming a professor was a dream I had always envisioned, and when I finally
got into teaching, I found immense joy in it. Despite the challenges of preparing for classes, events,
and activities, I embraced it wholeheartedly.
However, this was only a contract-based job, which I held for seven years across prestigious
institutions in Goa. Every year, I had to go through interviews, testing myself repeatedly. Life,
however, had a different plan for me. After three years of continuous teaching, I got married and
soon was blessed with my first child. This marked a turning point as it became difficult to continue
with the lecture-based contracts. I had to stay home to care for my baby, and the long travel
distances to various colleges were no longer feasible.
Then, one day, I received an unexpected call from Sunshine Worldwide Secondary School for the
position of Economics Educator. I attended the interview, got selected, and thus began my journey at
Sunshine. This experience was entirely new. I started teaching 15- and 16-year-old students, but I
quickly realized that here, the role of an educator was about connecting with learners, not just
delivering lessons. These students were different from what I had previously encountered, and my
traditional lecture method failed to engage them. I couldn’t win their hearts or connect with them as
I had hoped.
The principal had to step in and guide both me and the learners. He emphasized the importance of
building strong connections first, assuring me that everything else would follow. He also introduced
me to the concept of differentiated learning—tailoring classes to meet the varied needs of students.
This was a new approach for me, but it transformed the way I taught. From that point on, I never
looked back and began my journey with the Sunshiners, determined to become a passionate
educator and make a meaningful impact on their lives.
Throughout this journey, I experienced a personal transformation. The school’s philosophy, especially
“Freedom with Responsibility,” resonated deeply with me. It taught me to be firm yet
compassionate, understanding, and supportive of each student’s needs. We strive to instill this
philosophy in our learners, but it was equally challenging for us educators to embody it. It is often
said that unless you are convinced, you cannot convince others.
Sunshine provided me with numerous opportunities, breaking the monotony of traditional roles.
Every individual’s talent was recognized and valued. One such opportunity came my way when I was
given the chance to take on a leadership role as the Chief Promoter of the Sunshine Corporate
Business World (SCBW). I thought to myself: A leadership role—another incredible opportunity! I am
immensely grateful to the school for nurturing my leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and
abilities in planning and organizing events. This experience shaped me into a leader with kindness,
empathy, and a firm resolve.
Now, six years down the line, I have accomplished so much, yet I remain eager to learn more.
Sunshine has polished me, boosting my confidence, technological skills, and much more. I am a
fulfilled soul, grateful for the journey I’ve had here at Sunshine, and for the opportunity to make a
difference in every learner’s life.
Ms. Pramila Amonkar.
Eco / Entre Educator
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