What is the name of the school where you work?
AGGARWAL: Swigert International School
What was your favorite subject growing up?
AGGARWAL: Math
What clubs and extracurricular activities did you participate in as a student?
AGGARWAL: Chess Club, Math Explore Club, Critical Thinking Buzz
What influenced you to go into teaching?
AGGARWAL: I grew up in India where students just did what the teachers asked them to do. Students’ ideas were never honored. For me every concept was so complex and my teachers never made it simple for me to understand. But at home, my mother would relate most of the math and science concepts to stories and those connections would make it so much easier for me to get through the instructional content. I realized that I wanted to be that kind of support for other kids too. Being the oldest sibling, I started helping my brother and sister. Teaching them made me feel that it combines my love of learning with my desire to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. This sense of empowerment lead me to pursue my interest in the field of teaching.
What is your favorite part of your daily teaching life?
AGGARWAL: My favorite part is interacting with my students: especially the moments where something really clicks with them. When I see their confidence grow, even though it is a slow process, it gives me immense happiness. Getting to know my students, their personalities and watching their progress over time is the most fulfilling part of my day!
How many years have you been teaching?
AGGARWAL: 18
In what ways are you active in your school’s community (coaching/clubs/volunteer/work)?
AGGARWAL: I am a math team lead for K-2 in my school and I love collaborating with my colleagues, coaching/learning from their best practices. I actively participate in the professional development activities that help strengthen our school as a whole. Before the start of every school year, I do home visits for my students to meet them and their families, and this helps build rapport with them and know them better. I school organizes lots of community events like International Night, Winter Festival, Bingo Night, and I try to attend most of themm during the year.
What is something interesting about you that your students would be surprised to learn?
AGGARWAL: I have lived in 3 countries and I can speak 4 languages.
If you could pass along one piece of advice to your students, what would it be?
AGGARWAL: Believe in yourself: you may not be able to do something yet, but if you persevere, you will!
