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Year 1 Reflection


Salam everyone!

Every end of June, I ask my students to reflect on their school year. I ask them to speak about their highs, lows, what they have learned and what their goals are for the future.

With just 1 week left, I think it’s only fair that I too reflect on my latest school year.

Let me start by saying that the past 10 months have been filled with ups and downs. I have learned so much about myself and the people who surround me here in Dubai.

I remember how excited I was when I moved to Dubai back in August. I was truly looking forward to my new adventure. Unfortunately, once work began, I encountered many obstacles. I struggled with how different things were in my new work environment; the position, the program, the people… Nonetheless, I was not going to let these things stop me from enjoying this great opportunity. After just a few weeks of school, I decided to apply for a new position; the Foreign Language Department Coordinator. I thought it was the perfect position for me to expand and become a leader. Little did I know, I had so much to learn about becoming a good leader. As of today, I can still say I have a long way to go, but I do feel like I have gotten on the right track after being questioned by a few people. In the past few weeks, some wonderful things have happened which are without a doubt the results of my hard work and dedication. I have earned the respect of colleagues, parents and even students who once questioned my motives and abilities: there is no better feeling than that! 

Outside of work, my personal and social life has been so exciting. While living here, I have had the opportunity to travel to Jordan, Sri Lanka and other Emirates such as Abu Dhabi, Ras el Khaimah and Fujairah. I attended 4 concerts; the Atelier festival (Nelly, 50 cent, Craig David…), the Caribbean festival (Sean Kingston and Jason Derulo), Usher and Katy Perry, as well as Kanye West.  I had many outings with friends on weekends (dinner, dancing…). I’ve also invested a lot of time in my health and fitness; playing soccer (football), joining the gym, training with a personal trainer, doing Crossfit, running (relay race, individual race) and swimming.

I've made it! 
Overall, I think the past 10 months have been a huge success. I mean, what is better than learning about yourself while challenging yourself and pushing yourself beyond your limits?

Thank you to everyone who has supported me!

Mom and Dad, thank you for all the Skype sessions and the unconditional love! It is because of the both of you that I am who I am today.
Nic, Nathan, Amber (and Ray Ray): We may not speak often, but I cherish every time we do speak and I know that you are always there for me no matter what!
All my friends and other family members from North America: Thank you for following me throughout this first year in Dubai and for providing words of encouragement when it was needed! I am so glad I have people like you in my life!
All my new friends here in Dubai: Thank you for laughing with me and for being there for me when times were rough! I'm glad I found you here! 

Well, that's that...I really look forward to coming back in August to be challenged even more at work and to spend more time with my new friends...but first, I feel like I deserve a vacation! ;)

Italy, Canada, USA, Spain, Portugal…I'm just about ready!

Ma’a salama Dubai...see you soon! 

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