Introduction

Memories of our favorite teachers often linger in the recesses of our minds, especially when a question prompts us to recall these cherished moments. For many of us, these teachers leave an indelible mark on our lives, guiding us both academically and personally. In this article, we delve into the stories of my favorite teacher, Miss Nisha, and Professor GP Singh's sharing of his top three favorites. These narratives highlight the profound impact these educators had on their students' professional and personal growth.

Miss Nisha: My 9th Grade Mathematics Teacher

The Strict Yet Loving Figure

One of the most cherished memories from my high school years is of my 9th-grade mathematics teacher, Miss Nisha. She was more than just a teacher; she was a mentor who turned my life around. Miss Nisha's approach to teaching was unique – she was strict yet respectful, and this dual nature created an environment that was both challenging and enjoyable.

One of the things that stands out is how she always called my name whenever she entered the classroom. Regardless of whether I needed to answer a question or not, she made sure to involve me. This routine brought immense joy to my days, while my classmates often felt out of place during these teacher-student interactions. Those moments may not return, but the joy and confidence they instilled in me remain.

Miss Nisha's teaching philosophy was rooted in inspiring students to discover their passion for learning. She turned my love for studies into a lifelong journey of curiosity and exploration. Her continuous motivation and influence are what propelled me to trust in myself and achieve great heights. She truly was an angel who turned my life upside down and is the reason for who I am today.

Though she is no longer with us, Miss Nisha's teachings continue to guide us, and her memory remains a source of inspiration. Her absence is deeply felt, and I often wonder how she would react to our current achievements, knowing that she is watching us from above.

Prof. GP Singh: Reflections on Top Three Favorites

Three Teachers Who Shaped My Life

Prof. GP Singh shares his experiences with his top three favorite teachers, Helen Ewald, Charlie Kostellnick, and Phyllis Jagiello. Each of these educators played a significant role in shaping his professional and personal growth.

Helen Ewald: Research Guide and Mentor

Prof. Singh's research project with Helen Ewald at Iowa State University was transformative. Ewald was open to his research experiences and was his thesis chair, guiding him through the process of multimedia title creation in 1994. She understood the relationships within the industry and provided valuable insights, co-authoring a paper with him on the rise of women in the industry.

Their friendship grew as they worked together, becoming close friends despite the initial scholarly disagreements. Ewald's support during the thesis process was invaluable, and her open attitude towards differing viewpoints inspired Prof. Singh to challenge and question his own opinions.

Charlie Kostellnick: Open and Supportive

Charlie Kostellnick's contributions to the field of visual rhetoric were acknowledged by Prof. Singh. Kostellnick’s papers were considered seminal, but Prof. Singh disagreed with some of his conclusions. Kostellnick, however, voted against the thesis initially, leading to a series of discussions and rewrites. The eventual resolution demonstrated Kostellnick's openness and support for academic integrity, which Prof. Singh deeply appreciated.

Phyllis Jagiello: High School Anthropology Teacher

Phyllis Jagiello, a high school teacher of anthropology, had a profound impact on Prof. Singh. She conducted her class at a college level, challenging students with academic work and introducing them to the world of anthropology. One of the most memorable moments was when she invited Jane Goodall to speak to their class, an experience that solidified Prof. Singh's love for the subject.

The rigorous academic standards set by Jagiello not only prepared him for college-level studies but also instilled a deep appreciation for the subject matter. Her innovative teaching methods and dedication to her students made her the top favorite among Prof. Singh's educators.

Conclusion

Reflecting on these favorite teachers reminds us of the immense value these educators bring to our lives. Miss Nisha's unyielding support and Chen Lo's robust mentorship serve as powerful reminders of the impact that dedicated educators can have. These stories highlight the importance of nurturing curiosity, fostering critical thinking, and instilling a sense of responsibility and resilience in students. Let us honor the teachers who shaped our lives and strive to be the changers they envisioned us to be.