Recently, everything felt nostalgic. We participated in the District Schools Press Conference. As I discussed on News Writing, I can't help but feel old knowing that I'm now the coach and not the student-writer anymore. However, I also felt relieved knowing that I wouldn't be the one to compete with other student writers.
Nostalgic
My student-writers were six graders. They came from a multi-grade elementary school. The other one had experience last year because she was also chosen as the contestant for news writing in Filipino, and the other one is a newbie. I have decided to bring a newbie so that the other one won't be bored and won't feel alone. At least, she has someone to share her feelings and worries with.
Before the competition, my student-writers sat with other student-writers from the different schools in our district as the resource speaker discussed the details of news writing. Surprisingly, her slides were the same as what I shared with my students back in school. I felt relieved knowing that my students have prior knowledge regarding the topic. However, the competition still requires them to write news.
I'm beyond grateful that my newbie writer placed first in the News Writing English Category. I knew it even before they announced it because the speaker approached her and provided feedback on her work. She also promised to give her sample news stories so my student could study them. The other one didn't make it, but I'm still proud of her for showing up and trying her best.
Happy Kid, Happy Adviser
Looking back at the good old days, as a student writer myself, I'm proud of the experiences that I gained. There were times that I lost and times that I won. I knew the feeling of being a winner. It is like you are being raised on cloud nine. It surely boosts self-esteem. I also know what it feels like to lose. It is sad, and your self-confidence also decreases. But it could be a stepping stone for you to do better next time.
In the beginning, the goal that I have instilled in them is for them to gain experience and observe what it is like to be outside the school premises. I didn't push them to be winners; rather, I inspired them to do their best and have fun. Lo and behold, they understood the assignment and even exceeded my expectations. The said student will soon compete in the Division Schools Press Conference this April. Win or lose, I'm already happy with her achievement and Im proud of her.
At the Venue
I'm sharing this experience here as I'm a happy and proud adviser who was once a student writer.