As a teacher and mentor, I always make it a point to appreciate my students not just for their academic efforts, but for the dedication and flexibility they bring into the learning space.
On Wednesday 16th April I switched gears and roles as I wrapped up my Phonological Theories module with my dear students. To mark the end of the course, we had a revision session followed by a small celebration: cupcakes for everyone, each one personalized with a student’s name. It was my way of saying thank you not just for their hard work, but for their patience, flexibility, and commitment throughout the semester.
As someone in executive management, my schedule often includes official duties that take me away from campus sometimes to Salima, Lilongwe, or beyond. for university duties. Despite these demands, these students were consistently adaptable: attending virtual sessions, embracing make-up classes, and treating each rescheduled session as a joyful reunion.
We explored tough linguistic theories, laughed, supported one another, and even took time to reflect on life. It reminded me that teaching is more than imparting knowledge it’s about connection, trust, and shared growth.
To my students: thank you for walking this journey with me, for your resilience, your curiosity, and for reminding me of the joy that lives at the heart of teaching.
#LifeOfAnAcademic #AcademicLeadership #TeachingAndLearning #MUSTMoments
