46 years ago, when I was a novice
teacher of elementary Russian at The Ohio State University, I was having a bit
of an existential crisis about my career path. Going through repetitive drills
for students in a language that was just as foreign to me as it was for them
had become burdensome, so I scheduled a meeting with Professor Gerry Ervin, my teaching advisor.
It was in that meeting, which
quickly evolved into a heart-to-heart conversation, that I first considered the
idea of teaching English language communication. And it was that professor who
reminded me that if working with learners were still truly a passion for me,
then maybe I would find more satisfaction teaching a language I was more
comfortable with and in a different format.
“If you could imagine yourself
living and working abroad, say, in ten years’ time, where might that be?” Dr.
Ervin asked me.
Having recently read a popular
magazine article about a country rich in cultural diversity and dynamically
geared for development, I was quick to answer: Singapore.
Yes, Singapore!
Within a year of that
conversation, I was teaching English conversation skills and business
communication for young engineers at General Motors in Lisbon, Portugal. Within
six years, I was teaching English for Academic Purposes (EAP) for an American
university twinning program in Shah Alam, Malaysia. As fate would have it,
however, I did not arrive in Singapore until 2007, a full 28 years after that fateful
talk—and after what seemed like an entire teaching career in Japan.
Reflecting now on my Singapore
Institute of Technology (SIT) journey, within the Centre for Professional
Communication (CPC), I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and fulfilment.
Over the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of working alongside
incredible colleagues and inspiring students, while contributing to a vibrant
academic environment. This period has not only been a significant chapter in my
professional journey but also a time of rich personal growth and discovery.
Joining SIT in July 2015, I was
eager to bring my extensive experience in EAP, technical writing, and
communication to this dynamic institution. My prior roles at the National
University of Singapore (NUS) (2007-2015), Akita International University (2003-2007),
Minnesota State University in Akita, Japan (1990-2003), and other institutions
had equipped me with a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of
intercultural communication, workplace relationships, and pedagogical
innovation.
One of the most rewarding aspects
of my tenure at SIT has been the opportunity to refine my pedagogical skills
further and to develop and deliver curricula that bridge the gap between
academic knowledge and real-world application. I have had the pleasure of
designing and implementing modules and workshops that enhance students'
communicative competencies, preparing them for the complexities of the
professional world. It has been incredibly gratifying to witness the growth and
development of so many students, knowing that I have played a part in shaping
not just their academic work and future careers but their lives as well.
My involvement in various
research projects and publications has further enriched my experience.
Collaborating with esteemed colleagues on studies related to workplace
communication, significant learning, and the use of social media in education
has allowed me to contribute to the broader academic community. These endeavours
have not only expanded my knowledge but have also provided valuable insights
that I have incorporated into my teaching practices.
Throughout this time, I have been
passionate about fostering intercultural understanding and student-faculty
collaboration. Mentoring groups such as CPC’s SITizen Ambassadors and working
with students and SIT colleagues in the design-focused Mapletree Challenge have
been highlights of my work journey. These experiences have underscored the
importance of cultural and interpersonal exchange and have reinforced my
commitment to promoting global citizenship among my students.
In addition to various academic
roles, I have had the privilege of conducting/co-conducting corporate training
workshops for various organizations, including i-Spray, KK Women's Hospital,
and Takashimaya Singapore. These experiences have allowed me to apply my
expertise in professional communication to diverse contexts, further enhancing
my ability to address the unique needs of different audiences.
As I reflect further on the 18
years of my Singapore chapter, I am proud of the accomplishments and the impact
I have made both within SIT’s CPC and at NUS’s Centre for English Language
Communication. The recognition I have received, including the Annual Teaching
Excellence Award at both institutions, serves as a testament to my dedication
and commitment to excellence in education. It also illustrates the close bonds
that I have forged with so many others.
Looking ahead, I am excited about
the opportunities that retirement will bring. While I will miss the daily
interactions with colleagues and students, I am eager to explore new avenues
for personal and professional growth. I am confident that the skills,
knowledge, and experiences I have gained during my time here in Singapore will
continue to guide and inspire me in the next stage of my life.
To bring this story to a close,
let me add that I am forever indebted to so many of you—my colleagues, my
former students, my friends—for the support, engagement, and goodwill you have
provided. This journey has truly been a transformative experience and the fulfilment
of a lifelong dream.
As I embark now on this new phase
of my life, I will forever carry with me the memories, lessons, and friendships
that have defined our time together here.
Thank you! Xièxiè! Terima kasih!
Nandri! Khob khun! Spasibo! Gracias! Salamat!
