Interview with Ms. Emie Lara Grade 4 Teacher 3 June 2016

Ms. Emie Lara one of Aoba’s long-time teachers sat down for an interview. The interview went like this:

How long have you been at Aoba?
“I’ve been with Aoba for 10 years.”

How long have you been teaching for?
“I’ve been teaching for nearly 20 years, this is the 3rd international school that I have worked for.”

What do you enjoy most about teaching?
“I love the challenge of engaging young minds and watching the light bulb come on when a new idea or procedure ‘clicks’ – I call it the ‘aha’ moment! Besides,
as a student myself, I enjoyed school a lot. I was curious about things and really love learning and reading, so school gave me the opportunity to do things I like. I was fortunate to have had inspirational teachers who were my role models and their positive influence on me were life lasting. Early experiences in life kind of gave a hint that I will likely be a teacher.

What did you study in University?
“I studied Journalism in college and later went back to complete a Masters in Education with a focus on language.”

What led you to pursue a Masters in Education?
“Teaching refugees for the U.N. lead me to pursue further studies in education.”

What are some of your hobbies and passions?
“I enjoy snorkeling, reading, and traveling – I do it whenever there is a chance.”

Can you share an interesting fact about you?
“I was born and lived in Vietnam and thus can speak a little Vietnamese.”

What is you’re your teaching philosophy?
“The optimal learning environment is when I work in partnership with students. I believe when students take ownership of their own education it helps them realize that they are responsible for their learning outcomes. This is essential so that students can take what they have learnt and apply these in real-life practical situations. I am constantly working to develop in students a commitment to lifelong learner seeking knowledge and skill by providing them opportunities to learn, relearn, and unlearn things.”