I remember last year, I walked into Mr. Habibian's PreCalculus 12 class one day to ask him a question. As he was hunting for something for me (a textbook? the calculators? I don't remember) I was looking out at his class. I knew many of these students, having taught them in grade 8 and/or 10. I was smiling and waving... and then I saw Hiva. I did not know her. Had never even seen her before. And, in that first glance, she seemed VERY intense to me (SORRY HIVA!!!).
So when she arrived to my Calculus class this year and sat RIGHT IN FRONT OF MY DESK I was a little concerned. "Uh-oh. Did she sit right up at the front in order to mutter complaints at me"? Well, it took about ten whole minutes to realize that the only thing intense about Hiva is her deep motivation to do her best. In terms of her personality, she is anything but. On the contrary, she is warm, and polite, and charismatic. And I have come to LOVE her presence in the desk right in front of me.
Hiva often comes to my class on her - and my - spare block (along with Estella). This has allowed me to get to know her fairly well, even though this is the first time I have taught her. She is a fascinating person. She has lived in Germany (and speaks fluently) as well as Iran. She is a concerned big sister. She is well spoken and has strong convictions / opinions. She has an "interesting" English tutor.
One of my favourite things about Hiva is how expressive she is. Some people's tone and face never change, regardless of mood. Not Hiva. When she is intrigued her eyes are wide. When she is being funny she adopts a sly smile. When she is confused her brow furrows and her voice rises. It adds to her charisma and is very endearing.
As I already mentioned, Hiva is a very motivated student. She works hard. She is organized. She has big goals in life. I have witnessed firsthand how she doesn't let disappointment stop her. She recommits and gets back to work. This is called "grit" and studies show that this is the NUMBER ONE trait to be successful in life. I'm predicting great things ahead for Hiva!!
It has been awesome getting to know you this year, Hiva. Thanks for spending so much time in my classroom. You are a fun to person to be around and a special student, indeed. I wish I had gotten to teach you more than one single time but am very thankful for all the good times this year. All the best, Hiva!