Simply Amazing Teacher

-Sophia Vien Andongo

“Perform as if it’s your last performance, open your heart and give your best.” I still remember the quote that changes me a lot. I was transformed not only by physical means, by the way I look and act, but I’m also genuinely transformed into a new person. Her words are simple but it was really special to me. She constantly motivates me when I say “I can’t do this, I’m weak.” She always says you’re great, its fine don’t be upset. Life’s full of ups and downs. She taught me to dream, smile, live and believe all over again.

Her magnificent name is Mrs. Virgibal S. Vallo. She changed me a lot. She builds my self-esteem and proved that even if I’m just a student, I can be a great instrument to transform the world. She patiently makes the lessons so easier to understand. I hate Social Studies when I was in grade school but when she became my teacher, wow! What a big miracle! She changes my perspective about that subject and not only that she’s also my major teacher in Theater Arts for two years. She builds my confidence to perform greatly in front of many people and taught me to appreciate little things, never judge and be glad about the works I created; she’s completely and definitely amazing! She opened my eyes to see what others cannot see. She embraced me with care that until now I feel the glimpse of her teaching, the advices that were planted so deeply in my heart. Some of my classmates describe a teacher as someone who encourages you to excel in academics but I believe that a good teacher is more than that. She must guide you in all aspects of your being. She’s someone who cares about her students’ situations. Teacher Vallo plays many roles in the novel of my life. She’s my best friend, counselor, mother, sister, and greatest supporter.

             I am so blessed to have her in my life. She serves as my guardian angel. I assure you that all her sacrifices in understanding her students will not put in vain but be treasured until my last breath. When I grow up I want to be like her, a strong motivator, a great transformer and an amazing person they would ever meet. I also joined this photo-essay writing contest because I believe that she should be recognized not only because of her excellent teaching abilities but because she made a big difference in my life. She brought out the best in me, a superhero in the making. She showed me that it’s not about giving up that matters most in life but it’s about being stronger despite of many problems. Throughout the year of being with her, I never tried to tell how much I thank her. Now with all sincerity, I will shout loudly and proudly “Thank you Ma’am Virgibal Silang-Vallo.” Without you, I wouldn’t know how much life is beautiful!