After graduating from high school, learning English was my dream because I believed it would allow me to read and gain access to endless knowledge. My dream seemed to come true, until my parents decided to separate.
Their divorce brought financial constraints to my academic journey, and any plans I had came to a halt when COVID-19 spread. I started feeling hopeless and depressed. Back then, all I had was a notebook to write down my feelings and find a little solace.
Fortunately, I was selected by a local community school called the Education Gathering Group (EGG) Academy, which provides a full scholarship for two years. This opportunity not only allowed me to continue my education but also taught me to see the beauty of community service through courses in community development and social science.
Having experienced a healthy and positive learning environment for the first time, I was inspired to want to become a community teacher who could fulfill the academic needs of my society. I have now been teaching for two years, growing through dedication and effort.
While doing community work, I noticed the importance of mental well-being and emotional support in the holistic development of students. Unexpectedly, I was shocked to learn of the sudden death of one of my students. She took her own life. I could not understand why, because she was always smiling. I could only relate to her when I found my worn-out notebook filled with dark thoughts.
She may have had difficulty opening up about her feelings. I wish someone had been there to listen to her. I am committed to being a compassionate listener for those facing challenges, in the hope of preventing similar situations.
Realizing the importance of mental health, I began using my time and skills as a teacher to make a difference.
About Elliot
- Age: 24
- Ethnicity: Karen
- Country: Myanmar
School & Program
- VinUniversity
- Bachelor’s, Psychology
- 1st Year in Program
Goals & Dreams
- Become a mental health counsellor
- Become a better listener
Loan Details
- Loan Amount: $2,025
- Amount Left To Fund: $1,900
- Contract Duration: 11 years
- Status: In School
I introduced wellness practices into my classrooms, including mindfulness and gratitude meditation, journaling, and affirmation sessions. One day, while students were engaging in mindfulness meditation, some of them started crying. I could see a lighter emotional weight in their eyes afterward. Perhaps that session was the only moment they felt safe to be vulnerable and acknowledge their feelings.
I make an effort to reach out to every one of my students and offer counseling whenever necessary. I have learned to become a dependable person, someone others can talk to and find comfort in.
To allow even the slightest feeling of relief in someone’s mind is what I truly desire. That is why I wish to gain deeper knowledge about human behavior and pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology. I am determined to become part of a larger cause, to promote the mental and emotional well-being of vulnerable people. I hope that no reflection of her experience will happen again in the future.
Written by Elliot with editing assistance from Zomia’s volunteer editors.
Elliot
“To allow even the slightest feeling of relief in someone’s mind is what I truly desire.”
