We’ve all had that favorite high school teacher or college professor that we’ve connected with. From hours spent in their classroom or office, to life chats, that teacher knows everything about you; your hopes, your plans, your friends, etc.
In high school, I too had a favorite teacher that kept me sane through the 3 years I spent at my high school (3 years because I transferred after my freshman year).
During my sophomore year, he was my math teacher and I honestly wasn’t a fan of his class. I was in a class of all freshmen who were arguably all smarter than me. He knew I didn’t like being the only sophomore and he certainly knew I didn’t like being behind freshman. He always used to joke with me and he made me feel comfortable with my new surroundings. During the last class of the year, he said to my class, “if you ever need to talk or just want to stop by I’ll always be here” and I certainly took him up on that offer.
The first day of junior year I walked into his room during lunch and immediately start sobbing. I was taking honors pre calc with juniors and I was already overwhelmed. In high school I had no confidence in myself when it came to math, so I genuinely was convinced I would do terrible. After talking to him for not even a minute he just stopped me and said “you’re being ridiculous”. From then on, this was his typical line to snap me back into place and talk some sense into me and I probably heard it once or twice a week, but I didn’t mind.
During my junior year, I was getting bullied by a group of girls and wanted to transfer back to my old high school. After telling him this, he once again said “you’re being ridiculous” and instead of telling me I should transfer, he told me to quit cheerleading and join the track team.
I don’t know what got me to actually follow through and do track but I did, and it was the best decision I have ever made. I met a group of girls who turned into my sisters and I had a group of amazing coaches, including him. AND I even turned out to be good at track, starting varsity my first meet ever.
Looking back, I don’t know I would have survived high school without him. He was basically my second dad. He knew (and still knows) everything about my school work, my sports, my friends, and even my boyfriends. He’s seen me cry more than anyone I know and even teases my boyfriends by warning them about how emotional I am. He’s been there for me through various friends and boyfriends, through picking colleges, and even now during college. He still makes me send him my grades in college and even makes me email him when I drive drown to New Jersey to see my boyfriend.
Okay, so maybe you weren’t exactly crying in front of your favorite teacher, but I bet you can relate. It’s so great to have someone who isn’t your family or friends to talk to when you’re in school. It’s also great to have someone that supports you through everything and isn’t afraid to knock some sense into you when you need it. Everyone has that special teacher or professor that has helped them along the way.
If you haven’t spoken to them in a while, send them a thank you and let them know how you’re doing. If they cared about you now they still do!
Boston & Beyond 