As our academic year progresses, we welcome many new staff members. The Woodstocker caught up with some of them to chronicle the first chapter of their adventures.
Where are you coming from and where are you right now?
I was at a school in Gurgaon called GD Goenka. I was working as a counseling psychologist for 5-6 years and I was dealing with both middle years and senior students. I am in Gurgaon at the moment but I will be in Mussoorie very soon.
What subjects do you teach?
I am a personal counselor. I also take PSHE for grade 11.
What’s different about Woodstock from the last place you worked at?
I see lots of differences when it comes to being at Woodstock. One of the major differences being that so many different kinds of cultures come together. This is something that is not visible all across India. There are students from all over the world, with different backgrounds, which I think is very exciting. Another thing is that everyone has a lot of respect for each other and both teachers and students have autonomy of perspective and expression.
What are your goals for the academic year?
My first and foremost goal is to create a good rapport with everyone, as a human being first, and then as a counselor. I believe that anyone will talk to you if you are your real self. This goal would then progress into the social and emotional support that I can offer the students. In the context of academic goals, I want to make the PSHE session interactive, to hear different opinions and perspectives so that they are enriching and add value to the lives of students.
Are there any fun facts about you that you’d like to share?
I love singing. I sing a lot! I do karaoke. I like talking to people and I also really like to write. I also write for the Delhi Mental health Council. I am a council member of the Women’s Indian Chamber of Industry & Commerce, Delhi mental health council. We write blogs about topics every month; I ensure certain topics are talked about.
What’s one thing you like about Mussoorie?
I have actually been to Mussoorie before, although not as a member of the Woodstock community. I love the mountains. I think that there is a lot of peace and solace. The pandemic has made us realize the importance of being close to nature and being connected to the environment. There’s nothing better than working in a wonderful place like Woodstock and at the same time living in a serene natural environment.
What’s one thing you have noticed about Woodstock students?
I have noticed that students at Woodstock are extremely confident. I like that because I think it is essential to confidently put across your opinions and I believe that is a part of holistic education. Another thing I have seen is that along with academics, they take other co-curricular activities very seriously. They are very invested in all aspects of their overall personality development.
Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
One thing I would like to share is that although the past 2 years have not been easy for all of us, considering the pandemic, this too shall pass. It has been especially difficult for educators and we too miss being with our students. We are soon going to enter a phase where we meet, and although it will be different, we will be able to establish that human connection that we all miss. Let’s be positive!
Naavya Jain is a staff reporter
Edited by Rewa Nyangmi
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