First Day High

"Oble"

Years ago, as a college student, I dreaded first day of school. It means new books to be photocopied for readings, new set of strikingly odd professors, subjects to fail or pass, shortened semestral break, family and friends to miss, and the fact that I'd be far away from the comfort of home. 

This time around, it's totally different. I have assumed the role of a teacher. Still, the worry and anxiety is there. Who will be my students? What will be my preparations for the semester?What will be my schedule? Last concern is what will I tell my students on the first day. Will they be scared of me? will they like me? Will they drop from the class?

Right after college, I've landed on several jobs before I've finally found my niche, my true love--teaching. Whatever I do and wherever I go, a certain invisible force pulls me back tot he roads of educating. It took me sometime to accept my calling. Since I've been doing it for quite some time now, I've decided to write down my FIRST DAY HIGH COMMANDMENTS to avoid misunderstanding, miscommunication and inefficiency inside the class.

This way, I would also feel prepared. And would give me the confidence and security that my students and I are meeting on the same level.

Xavier Hall, Ateneo de Naga University

FIRST DAY HIGH COMMANDMENTS

1. Thou shalt not be absent in class if you do not know how to study on your own.

2. Thou shalt not miss major examinations or requirements if you are not diligent enough to follow up on your professor next semester. 

3. Thou shalt not make excuses that are  not good enough to cover up your absence or tardiness.

4. Thou shalt not sit beside someone who is always absent if you plan to skip classes, as well.

5. Thou shalt recite in class if you are poor in written exams.

6. Thou shalt take advantage of bonus points if you perform poorly in examinations.

7.Thou shalt withdraw from class if you see that your grades are failing.

8. Thou shalt not be afraid to ask. Your teacher is not a cannibal. 

9. Thou shalt read all the reading requirements.

10. Thou shalt find friends in the class who are responsible, diligent and trustworthy because these characteristics can be contagious.

11. Thou shalt not be afraid to check your grades. There is nothing wrong in being conscious with your grades.

12. Thou shalt not sacrifice studying in exchange of putting make up on girls or brushing "Justine Bieber" type of hair for boys.

13. Thou shalt not be guilty of studying a bit too much.

14. Thou shalt be grateful for teachers who don't get absent.

15. Thou shalt  bring school materials like books, reading materials, notebooks and pencils.