Singapore Swansong

 

46 years ago, when I was a novice teacher of elementary Russian at 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 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. But as fate would have it, I did not arrive in Singapore until a full 28 years later after that talk—and after what seemed like an entire teaching career in Japan.

Reflecting now on my journey within the Centre for Professional Communication (CPC) and in Singapore in general, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and fulfilment. Over the past 18 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 the Singapore Institute of Technology (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), Akita International University in Japan, 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 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 my Singapore chapter, I am proud of the accomplishments and the impact I have made both at the Centre for English Language Communication and within the Centre for Professional Communication. The recognition I have received, including the Annual Teaching Excellence Award at both SIT and NUS, 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!