Today is my one month anniversary at ECC. So far... I love it. It challenges me in ways that I had never imagined it could. The stresses and problems are those that I have never had in life. When I was in NY, I was used to long hours, busy work, deadlines, and tons of other things. Life teaching children that do not fully grasp English (let alone life) is tough. I know this job for many can be seen as easy. It is definitely a job where you only get as much as you put in, and how much you care is a huge factor. I take it seriously, and I put myself into it. It could be a job where you just walk in and do it... but me, it is more.
One kid in class said she had no friends (we are talking about that). It broke my heart. You know some kids would say that for a laugh.. but the matter of factly she said it. She is probably 12/13. Even in class she is a loner... and it does not help that she is the only girl in the class. Things like that weigh on me. I know that in real school and school in the states teachers have to deal with these types of things. It is amazing... While I am nowhere near the level of teaching that teachers I had in the US were at... just this glimpse into this is eye opening.
Working in a law firm, I saw plenty of cases of people being neglected. Same thing here. Just some of the stories, the way people act... and knowing that I am absolutely powerless to help- other than being a fun loving happy teacher that gives them an escape to the harsh realities that are in life...
I am feeling healthier. I think by tomorrow I will be near 100%. Saturday for my reading at the library should work out without a hitch. I am excitedly nervous about this. I have no idea what it is... I just know I am representing my school, its parent company, and America. Many Koreans have such an idea of what Americans are and have a stereotype with us. So, I need to bring my full character and make it fun!!!
We started English only for my 7-1 class. I felt like a toughass enforcing it. These kids have an extremely limited vocabulary. Hopefully now they will get it a little better. There is one kid that refuses to speak... even in Korean... its tough.
I moved a girl that was talking too much in class on Tuesday (standard practice). I hear today that this girl went home and cried a lot because of it... Kid is probably 11 or 12. She seemed really quiet in class after I moved her... but I guess it affected her more than I was planning.
My first payday is tomorrow!!! I am rather excited. I want to buy two things... I want a bed... one that fits an Eric sized person. This single really just doesnt do me well. There is a place where they are supposed to have full size beds for about 150000. I'd even pay a little more. One thing I learned in NY is that a comfortable bed makes all of the difference. Also, definitely still want a microwave. They are normally around 30000 used. Other than that there really isnt much I need ASAP.
After work today, Sarah, Sam and I sat outside and ate. I had kimbap, she had ramen, and Sam had corn. the weather is starting to get better, and I am excited!
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