Written By: Sherita Smedley
ESL Instructor | Aston American University
Have you ever been scared to ask a question or to even speak out in class?
Well, you are not alone. Many students are scared to speak up in a class full of strangers, but let me tell you about a very courageous student who showed that determination can change things. It has been over a year, but I still remember the words of my soon-to-be favorite student and friend. “Teacher, I speak no English.” These were the first words that my new student, Maria spoke to me.
I asked all my students to come in and have a seat so that we could start class. That day was the first day of English Foundation, where I would begin teaching basic beginning English. I had taught this class many semesters and was already in my routine.
I looked around the classroom, excited to take role and noticed a student in the right corner. I began class as usual and noticed that throughout the lesson she did not say much or ask any questions. I was not surprised since it was the first day, but I was curious. The only thing that I knew was that she was from Mexico and her name was Maria.
After I assigned homework, I noticed that she was lingering after class. I approached her and already knew what she was going to say, I thought. She begins to explain to me that she had left Mexico and was staying here with her aunt and uncle. I could see the loneliness on her face and my heart instantly went out to her. We sat and talked for over an hour, and I assured her that I was there as her teacher and would help her along this new journey. She instantly smiled and gave me a hug. From that day forward she came to class with a smile and sat in the front row.
She instantly changed in a matter of days to become a more open student who was eager to learn and ask questions. I realized in that moment how brave she was; how much courage it took for her to leave her country behind and to start a new life in a country that she could not even speak the language.
As a teacher, it was my job to help her find her way and to make sure that I would be there to guide her as she begins to speak English. I was even able to give her a copy of my romance novel, “Passion on the Plains.” She began to read it and ask questions. As a result, her vocabulary started to grow and we created a bond of friendship. Thanks to Maria speaking her mind, she was able to change her life forever.
