All these past few weeks, almost every student in Greek secondary schools takes their promotion and final exams at the end of the year. And although I am not a student any more(I would like to, but so many years have passed - cough, cough - since then) I stand by my students' side, as a tutor, help them stydying for the exams.
It's been a job I have been doing for many years (about fifteen -cough, cough- I reveal my age here) and I know this period is very stressful for everyone involved and especially, a fast race for us involved in training in order to meet deadlines and resume stydying programs. Believe me, the four cups of coffee and lots, lots of vitamins are a necessary supplement in our lives these days.
This year, however, is a difficult year. After two years that the students, due to the coronavirus pandemic, had not written any exams, this year they enter this unprecedented world and the stress and intensity increases.
Especially my youngest students who have not re-written exams, imagine that it is something between chinese torture and the Holy Inquisition. Some looked at me with terror in their eyes and asked me if they would have to write for six hours in a row.
However, what matters is that the children try and do their best. And we must be there to guide and help them as much as we can. Give them courage and hold their hand to show them the ways they can later follow according to their wishes.
That's why we are teachers, after all. We teach, we do not impose. We examine, we do not torture. We are tired as our students are but we "walk" the same path, we on the side to instruct them when necessary.
And believe me, every year (with the exception of the last two) when I see the smiles in the faces of my students, I feel satisfied for the hard fight we give together.
And it definitely makes me rejuvenate and want to continue my work. Even if I have to consume the four cup of coffee, even if I have to sleep well for over a month. Does not matter. It's definetely worth it, for the kids.
Thank you for reading!
PS. These days, the senior students in Greece are taking the entance exams for university. Please, send them positive energy. They will need it
All the pictures were taken by me with the help of my old, but trustworthy mobile phone!
