The Process.

My official 7-week practicum started this past week, and as I mentioned in a previous post, I have been assigned to a grade 8 LA classroom. I wasn't given much advice prior; I think my cooperating teacher much prefers the "throw 'em to the wolves" approach, which is fabulous, because I worry far less about making mistakes. Mistakes have become a daily inevitability. I am shamed by how I am only just realizing this cruel but liberating fact two months shy of being 25 years old.
But I digress...
I was asked to not share any personal details with the students upon introducing myself on day one. I thought it was a strange request, but when you're an intern, I've learned that the lesson is in the process, not before the process, so the best thing to do is shut the H up, do what they say, and reflect on their brilliance after. Excuse my language, I've been an intern for many months and I'm feeling a little testy.
So this is what came to me (keep in mind, I didn't think to prepare because aside from my name and purpose, I wasn't allowed to say much else): "Hi, I'm Miss Crimmins. I'm a UNB intern. (Long pause). I'm having the best year of my life, and I'm excited to spend the next 7 weeks with you."

What
The
Shiz
?

"I'm having the best year of my life??"

I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHERE THAT CAME FROM!

"Can we call you Miss Crimms?"
"Uh... no I don't think you can."

And so the adventure continues, no word of a lie.
I wrote what I said on a post-it and put it on my bathroom mirror. It makes me laugh every morning when I get up and look like I was punched in the face. "I'm having the best year of my life" It's still funny. And maybe even true...
xox