How I Pay My Rent For Being Alive On Earth β¨ π
I'll be forever thankful to these students for sharing their stories, struggles, big and little dreams. I've learned as much from them, and tears fill my eyes as I write this post...
Four years ago, I left the allure of the corporate world, including its steady paychecks, after dedicating over a decade to engineering some of the world's most advanced projects in energy β‘οΈ, renewables π, and automation intelligence systems π€, including with the US Navy πΊπΈπ³οΈ. I rather chose a different journey; exploring the unknown, spreading joy across the globe, and embracing life with people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
Amidst my demanding engineering role, a job that required more than 60 hours a week, I found another purpose. I became a teacher, a coach, and a mentor to students navigating the intricate paths of STEM fields, in the evening times after my work, and the weekends (I still found time for an early 06:15 5K-10K morning jogging). From 9th graders to aspiring engineers and even Ph.D. students seeking a practical perspective, my classrooms became a melting pot of dreams.
Surprisingly, among my students was a technician of the Presidential helicopter of the French President for a quarter-century. He chose to pursue an engineering degree in Paris, and I guided him through the art and hidden secrets of mathematical modeling on cutting-edge programming platforms like Matlab, Simulink, and Simscape. Another, in his 50s, held a two-decade career in the Oil & Gas industry.
Yet, many of my students were from underprivileged backgrounds; immigrant families, refugees, and those facing medical challenges that traditional education systems struggled to address. Teaching these incredible minds, amidst my globe-trotting engineering adventures, taught me patience, diminished judgment, and instilled gratitude for every breath.
"Raise your words, not voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder." - JalΔl al-DΔ«n MuαΈ₯ammad RΕ«mΔ«, or simply Rumi (1207 - 1273), Greater Persia.
In these diverse classrooms, I found the true rent I pay for being alive on Earth. It's measured in understanding, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of helping others rise above their challenges.
I will never forget the expressions of relief and joy that my teachings brought to the faces of my students, hailing from diverse backgrounds; in some cases, families sought refuge from war zones. It wasn't me imparting knowledge; rather, they became my teachers, enriching my journey with invaluable lessons and contributing significantly to the learnings and experiences that have shaped the person I am today.
Why Students Appreciated me in Europe πͺπΊ and USA πΊπΈ?
Someone is tossing flowers onto himself! π
No, more seriously. The primary issue students often encounter in their academic journeys is having instructors with mostly theoretical backgrounds who lack real-world engineering experience. Picture this: a university lecturer guiding future engineers responsible for constructing our roads, planes, and electric vehicles, yet the lecturer hasn't actively engaged in industrial engineering projects.
In contrast, I bring over a decade of experience in engineering some of the world's most advanced projects in energy β‘οΈ, renewables π, and automation intelligence systems π€. My contributions even extend to projects with the US Navy π³οΈ. What sets me apart, as per my students words, is my ability to seamlessly connect the theoretical/mathematical realm with the tangible, physical worldβ‘οΈπ€.
The countless "Aha" moments witnessed on my students' faces speak volumes, often accompanied by remarks like, "My previous teacher never explained it this way." I've had mothers reaching out emotionally, insisting that I should stay in their city, and decline my new job opportunity elsewhere. π
A Moment of Reflection π
As I reflect on this incredible journey of teaching, I find myself awash with a kaleidoscope of emotions. π The classroom, with its diverse tapestry of dreams and challenges, has been my sanctuary of purpose. In the eyes of my students, I've witnessed not just comprehension but genuine sparks of inspiration. β¨
Their stories, filled with strength and determination, have become a meaningful soundtrack to my shift in focus. Despite not being a teacher by profession and having no prior connection to education, the experience of sharing my time and knowledge with students has been enriching. Teaching isn't just a part of my life; it's like an ongoing beat that guides my journey. The tears we share in happy moments and the quiet joy of seeing minds open up are like delicate threads weaving my passion for this unexpected path. I might leave behind my engineering pursuits, I might stop traveling, but teaching will always be a constant in my unique journey. ππ
With each student, I've learned that education extends far beyond textbooks; it's about empathy, understanding, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of knowledge. So, as I conclude this snapshot of my life, know that my journey as a teacher is an eternal symphony, and the resonance of each lesson echoes my commitment to this profound calling. The beauty lies not just in what I teach but in the indelible mark these incredible minds leave on my own evolving story. Gratitude fills my heart, and I eagerly await the next verse in this song of shared growth and boundless possibilities. ππ
If you prefer to read this article on Instagram, here you go π
Stay tuned for the upcoming chapter, where we journey through a reflection on the profound impact my students have had on my life. Gratitude fills my heart as I recount the stories, dreams, and the sheer resilience of these individuals who have become an integral part of my journey. πππ
π πΈ Taken from Hotel Pullman, Paris 7th - France π«π·. Got inspired to write this article from Kyrgyzstan π°π¬ - "River Newsletter".