My Graduation
23/09/2023 Graduation
I would often think of the day that I would graduate as a teacher. I would imagine walking across the stage with head held high, smiling from ear to ear. You see, it wasn’t easy. I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis only last year, aged merely 28. I was already suffering with ulcerative colitis, so I thought that I would be able to handle the pain. Then I found out that I was not ready for this pain whatsoever. Though, I believe everything is all about one’s mindset. However, I understand, it is not easy. At all.
My diagnosis
I was diagnosed with MS during my first year of my teacher training. I still had another year and couple of months left. I remember thinking to myself, “how can I possibly complete my PGCE whilst in constant pain and having such low energy?” Matters became even more difficult when I had a relapse in September 2022 which had lasted for many months (I was diagnosed with relapsing, remitting MS). So, I will speak about, why I decided to remain on the course and also, what motivated me to keep going.
How did I stay motivated?
Imagination, yes, imagination was one of the main reasons why I stayed on the course. I knew that if I had completed my PGCE, I would become a qualified teacher. I have always wanted to become a qualified teacher and teach in college. I am now proud to say I am a qualified teacher in the Post 16 Sector. So, imagination. Imagination was a technique that I used, and it kept me motivated through the pain of my illnesses and ensuring that I keep on track with my work and teaching. I would often imagine and visualise the day that I would walk across the stage at graduation. How would I feel? What would I say to myself? Where would I decide to teach? Would I look for work abroad or teach in the UK? I knew that the world would become my oyster in the oasis of new and exciting opportunities!
Inspiration and finding support
Motivation can be both internal and external..
My self-talk was mostly positive and uplifting. Yes, of course, there were days when I said to myself that I should quit as I am too poorly to continue. I put my full trust in God the Almighty. I could not have completed my teacher training or anything in life without the help of the Almighty. My religion helped me cope through the difficulties that I suffered. I am extremely grateful and I will continue to show my gratitude. My family and friends were also very supportive and helped me through everything. I am very grateful to them, as I believe that I could not have stayed motivated without their constant support. Regarding asking for help in my college and university, I decided to find out what help there is for students with disabilities. I found out that I can ask for extensions for assignments. My teachers were a very wonderful support system. I was given automatic extensions (2 weeks). They were always ready to listen to me whenever I needed to talk.
Self-Care
It is important to always be kind to yourself. Always be kind to yourself. Have a goal. Work towards it in the most manageable way. If you are also going through a challenging time in your life, try to find a support system. This might be your family, friends or acquaintances. If you are a student, try to find help and support from your college or university. You might be surprised to find out how much help is out there! Please remember, listen to your body. Also, take breaks! Go out for a walk, paint, read or listen to a podcast. Do what you enjoy.
The world needs your kindness, but YOU deserve kindness from yourself too!
Thank you very much for reading my post. I appreciate you very much! I know that I have been saying that I want to be more consistent! I will try my utmost to be. So, since graduating, I have managed to start teaching at a college. I want to write about managing teaching or work in general with disabilities. Please let me know what you would be interested in reading about. I hope to write a post at least once a month.
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Maryam Hagi Lifestyle 