2006-01-06 - 18:04
So, I've begun. The job started on Wednesday and I'm busily learning everyone's name. I think I'll even cheat and take a yearbook home this weekend so I know the teachers as well.
Considering the circumstances the beginning of the semester has gone amazingly smoothly. I'm on top of my grading, my syllabus is ready for next week and I only got lost on my way to the cafeteria once (all the buildings look the same).
There are a couple things that worry me. First of all I'm sweating again, nervous sweat. And I don't have a washing machine. Secondly, Jim talks like we need a war strategy to impress the boss and make sure the right colleagues like me. He has my best interest at heart but being plunged into the politics of this place is worrying to say the least. Lastly I've got to keep a step ahead of these kids.
Their levels do vary but most of them are sharp and I've never had to question whether I was prepared enough. In Romania I spoke English, a level of superiority I took for granted. In Hinesville. . .it wasn't my knowledge that I had to worry about. But here they expect results and I just hope I can be the teacher they want me to be. It's a terrible thing to doubt your abilities, but we can hope my anxiety will fuel my quest for structure and organization. I feel under control right now but wait until I start grading papers.
