Back To Special Features' List Interview With Miss Thio Lay Hong Miss Thio received her education in Fairfield Methodist Girls’ School in 1973 and graduated in 1983. She was really a gem in school as she was adorably well-behaved and respectful to her teachers, many of whom will remember her as a conscientious student with an excellent academic record. She was also actively involved in the Girls’ Brigade both as a student and later, as a teacher. In an interview with her, she tells of her experience as a teacher in Fairfield, her alma-mater, which she has served for more than 13 years now.   Once a Fairsian, Always a Fairsian... Interviewer: Miss Thio, when did you begin teaching in Fairfield? Miss Thio: I started teaching in 1990 in Fairfield which was my first school and I never regretted coming here. Interviewer: Why did you choose to become a teacher? Miss Thio: As a student, I was inspired by my teachers who were very caring towards me. Also, the teaching career is not as competitive as other professions. In the “outside world”, you really have to struggle to be promoted. It’s a tough but rewarding job. Teaching enables a person to meet very different types of students- some willing to learn but some do not bother about their studies. Teaching those who are really self-motivated is very easy but the greater challenge comes from teaching those who have no interest in their studies. Interviewer: What subjects have you been teaching all these years? Miss Thio: I have been teaching A Math, E Math and Science (Chemistry). Interviewer: How have you grown as a teacher? Miss Thio: Spiritually, I have learnt to trust God more because in my profession, if all I do is to depend on my own strength, I don’t think I would have made it through these 13 years. I’ve also learnt a lot about relating to both students and colleagues. I’m glad to say that I’ve actually found many close friends from among my colleagues and their friendship is what I will treasure. I have also learnt to develop a bond with my students. I still keep in touch with some of them even after they have graduated. Interviewer: What do you think is the best gift a student can possibly give to his or her teacher? Miss Thio: Teachers find the greatest satisfaction in seeing their students pay attention in class, do their homework, approach them when in doubt and realize that education is not just about studies but about developing the whole character as well. When they have a sense of commitment to their studies and CCA too – that’s the best gift. Interviewer: Could you share with us one good and one bad experience you’ve had as a teacher? Miss Thio: There are so many good experiences that I find it difficult to mention a specific one. It is very heart-warming when students who have graduated still have a heart for the school and come back to visit the teachers who had taught them. They still see themselves as Fairsians and continue to contribute their services when needed. It is a joy to the teachers when these students come back and share at Chapel about how their lives have been changed and moulded in Fairfield. A bad experience I have had was with students who were capable to excel in their studies or CCAs but did not put in the effort to do so. That’s the sad thing. Interviewers: What advice do you have for new teachers? Miss Thio: Sometimes teachers can be discouraged by their students when they do not show any interest in learning although the lessons are interesting and interactive. When this happens, teachers should persevere. As to how one can be a good teacher- it comes with experience. Teaching is a continuous learning process. Interviewer: What are your aspirations for the future? Miss Thio: For the time being, I’m happy to be a classroom teacher.   Miss Lau had this to say of Miss Thio who was in her form class in 1980: “ Although she has not grown very much in stature, she has grown tremendously in godly wisdom and maturity and is a fine example of a ‘Fairfield product’- a teacher who exudes such warmth, love and care for her fellow-teachers and students.” The school salutes you, Miss Thio, for what you are and for your dedication to Fairfield.