Nearly two years ago, I signed my first contract with VIPKID. My original intent was simply to make a little extra money. Our family aimed to live a debt-free life and we were intent on paying off our mortgage.
I also expected to develop a broader perspective of the world of education. Yet, I had no idea just how much it would change my life. While it started out as a side hustle to earn extra cash, I have fallen in love with teaching all over again.
Rediscovery
I first began my teaching career as a student teacher when I was yet in college. Since then, I have volunteered to teach aboard (summer 1993 in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico), served as an elementary science specialist, and taught every grade but high school. I have been a substitute teacher and currently teach professional development courses online for other educators.
I have taught homeschool co-ops and have lead hundreds of students on nature walks. I have also worked in informal education settings – teaching natural sciences at the estuarine reserve and marine life center. And would you believe, I am now my son’s Scoutmaster?!
I have focused so much of my energies on homeschooling my own children in recent years that I have missed having direct interaction with students and the fulfillment that comes from cultivating those relationships. VIPKid has helped me rediscover this joy.
I don’t invest my time and energy into something just because it’s a job. I do it because it’s my passion. I must admit though, working from home in the comfort of my favorite pair of leggings is pretty hard to beat.
Building relationships
To build a rapport with my students, I generally spend the first few minutes of the class intentionally getting to know my students. This is especially important with students I have not taught before. I ask probing questions to learn about their interests.
As I leave feedback for parents, I ask for input about how I can customize lessons to better suit their child. I am a more effective if I am able to make the lessons more personal. I believe strongly that this personal touch and extra care for the families with whom I interact has helped me to develop a close friendship with several of the parents of my students.
Through conversations we have shared over time, either through the VIPKid platform or through WeChat, we have discussed not only their child’s education, but we have also shared insights about our unique cultures, traditions, and beliefs.
My own children have been learning Mandarin Chinese since they were in preschool and as a family, we traveled to China in 2013. I am familiar with the culture yet the relationships I have developed with my VIPKid families has enriched my life exponentially.
Are you seeking employment?
If you have a bachelor’s degree (no matter the content area) and experience working with children, I strongly encourage you to consider VIPKid. The hiring process has been simplified and there are a wealth of resources to help you get started.
I would love to help coach you along the way. My personal referral code is EVA000007 – reach out to me with any questions.