I remember the first time I met Una. She was in Ms Sidhu's class that year (PreCalculus 10 I guess) and Ms Sidhu had to leave right after school. Una entered my classroom and, from the desperate look on her face - I could tell something was wrong.
Una: Uh... hi.
Me: Hello.
Una: I don't suppose you could help me with Math? Ms Sidhu had to leave and we have a test tomorrow and I don't understand ANYTHING!! I LITERALLY [I believe "literally" might be Una's favourite word] don't have a CLUE what's going on.
Me: Sure... but I only have around 20 minutes to spare.
In my head I'm thinking "wow. How much can I possibly help in 20 minutes? This poor kid obviously has no idea how to do anything they are working on. She's completely overwhelmed".
So we sat down to start... and it quickly became clear that Una knew about 95% of what she was supposed to know! I hardly had to teach her a thing!
This was my first clue that you have to take Una's "math difficulties" with a "grain of salt". I have witnessed some pretty impressive sighs, eye rolls, and even a few tears from Una while writing tests... and the end result has always been a fabulous mark! ALWAYS!!
Una is a great Math student. She asks lots of questions. She does all the assigned homework (if not more). She sees me for extra help. SHE may doubt her ability / knowledge at times but - by this point - I never do.
Of course I will never forget Una... because we share a birthday!!! October 6! I believe Una is the fourth student (I know of) who I have taught and has the same birthday. All girls and all VERY good students (one went to McGill, one went to Princeton, one went to U of T... I think... and now Una)! Obviously, there is something about October 6 that causes very smart... girls (boys born on that day aren't so clever).
Una is such a thoughtful person. She has bailed me out numerous times by scorekeeping at the last minute. She volunteered to read with the kindergarten kids several times last year. She is always friendly and warm-hearted to me (even after one of my "impossible" tests).
Teaching you has been lots of fun, Una. Always believe in yourself. With your strong work ethic, persistence, and winning personality you can't help but be successful in the future. I know that great things await you in the future. Best of luck!