A commitment to lifelong learning

Jocelyn Jong Wuan Syn, an Economics teacher at an international school, has always had a passion for teaching. Earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Education fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming an educator.

Demonstrating an ability to seize opportunities, Jong briefly worked as a flight attendant with Malaysia Airlines, motivated by the age constraints in the industry. However, her brief stint in aviation, traveling the world, ended after she gained valuable experiences in the role.

The 31-year-old clipped her wings and transitioned back into teaching after two years in the aviation industry, from 2018 to 2020. After teaching at a local government school and a Chinese independent school, Jong, now teaching at an international school, is also pursuing her Master’s Degree in Curriculum Studies.

In an interview with Sarawak Tribune, Jong shares more about her transition and lifelong dream of being an educator.

Receiving an award in celebration of Teacher’s Day.

Being an educator has always been her passion since she was young.

Q: Why did you decide to become an educator?

A: When I first decided to become a teacher, it felt like the perfect fit for my skills and passions. I have a knack for simplifying complicated theories and tailoring explanations to my students’ life experiences, which makes learning both relatable and enjoyable. My patience is truly my superpower; I can explain the same concept repeatedly without breaking a sweat. I’ve been tutoring since my high school days — just ask my neighbours’ kids, cousins, and classmates about the As I’ve helped them earn, and they’ll be quick to share. Seeking more stable hours, I resigned from my job as a flight attendant to embrace teaching while also diving deeper into the joy of lifelong learning.

How do you prepare for your daily school lessons?

At the beginning of each academic year, I dive into preparing a detailed work schedule, ensuring that my lesson plans are crafted a week in advance. Drawing from the valuable knowledge I gained in university and my diverse teaching experiences across local government schools, Chinese independent schools, and an international school with the IGCSE syllabus, I’m equipped to create an engaging and effective learning environment. I have developed a variety of study methods and schedules that help monitor my students’ progress, ensuring they stay on track to meet their goals and check in with me regularly. When it comes to grading, I follow the IGCSE format to provide consistent and constructive feedback while also teaching my students essential examination skills.

How do you cope with the mental exhaustion of teaching?

Teaching high school students can be both mentally and physically draining, especially at an age when they’re eager to explore the world. To help them navigate their journey, I connect with my students on a more personal level, chatting with them like a friend. I love suggesting ways for them to explore and triumph over life’s challenges while understanding the unwritten rules of society. At the end of the day, knowing that I’m contributing to their growth and safety fills me with relief and happiness. To cope with the mental exhaustion that sometimes comes with the job, I prioritise self-care by hitting the gym and attending Pilates classes two to three times a week. I also focus on maintaining a balanced diet — oh, and I’m cutting back on coffee and bubble tea. It’s all about finding that perfect balance.

How do you feel each time you have to say goodbye to your students when they’re graduating or moving on to a new class?

As an educator, saying goodbye to my students is always a bittersweet moment. Each farewell brings a twinge of sadness as I’ve watched them grow and thrive throughout the year. However, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride and joy for the new adventures that await them. It’s thrilling to see them graduate or move up to new classes, knowing they are ready to spread their wings and take on the world. While I will certainly miss their laughter and curiosity, I cherish the memories we’ve created together and look forward to hearing about all their future successes!

What are some life lessons that your students teach you?

My students continuously teach me the beauty of diversity and perspective. Every child comes with a unique background and personality, reminding me of the importance of standing in their shoes and approaching situations with an open mind. By appreciating our differences, I can foster a more inclusive environment where everyone feels valued. Additionally, my experiences with students reinforce my belief that everyone has the potential to achieve their dreams. I still remember one of my former students who pursued his passion and became a pilot — he even playfully asked me to make him a drink when I was working as a flight attendant! Moments like these fill me with joy and prove that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.

As she strives to ensure her students get the help they need, Jong remains persistent in her pursuit of helping them achieve that A.

As a teacher, she was surprised with a cake on her birthday.