Students

I have been a teacher (of improv, of reading, of math, of acting, of theatre for social justice) for many years now and it is one of the single most gratifying jobs I've ever had.  I take great joy in watching people learn something new or learn a new aspect of an old skill.  It's the reason I went to grad school, actually:  so I could eventually teach at a university level and get to watch people make extraordinary discoveries on a daily basis.  With paid vacation time.  The beauty of teaching for me is also the fact that every student I've ever had in any program has left a mark on my life.  Every one is so ineffably unique.  I remember something of every student I've ever had and I love that so much.  My life is filled with a thousand small stories that other people have shared with me, simply by dint of being part of a class I've taught.

So, today I was standing in a cafe in Bar Harbor, waiting on a take-out order (a fantastic, life-changing turkey melt sandwich from Sidestreet Cafe, which offers gluten-free bread on request, fellow celiacs!) when I happened to notice one of the other patrons of the restaurant who looked very familiar to me.  After I got my sandwich (seriously, it's SO GOOD!), I approached her and asked if she had taken classes at the Improv Asylum.  In the next few seconds, I watched recognition break across her face.  I had been her instructor for more than one class.  We squealed, we talked, we hugged, we had a grand old catch-up.  It was wonderful.

Students, your teachers remember you and care about you long after you've finished studying with them.  They wonder about you and hold you in their thoughts.  They care.  They wouldn't be teachers if they didn't.

BTW, my former student has a pretty kick-ass business now. Maine Foodie Tours.  Check them out if you're in Portland, Kennebunkport or Bar Harbor!