I only taught Nikki once - last year in PreCalculus 12 (what a smarty-pants! Taking PC 12 in her grade 11 year!). However, she was one of the 16 fantastic students who accompanied Ms. E and myself to France over Spring Break.
Here are a few things I learned about Niki on the trip:
- Niki is not the most confident flyer. Every time we got on another plane (I think we took five total) poor Niki tended to slouch down in her seat and go a little pale. But she'd never complain! No whining! No tears! What a trooper! Speaking of which...
- Niki is not the most adventurous eater. One day in Paris we ordered some escargots (snails) for lunch. When in France, right...? Anyway, everyone was eating their escargots with varying degrees of discomfort (none for me. I've always loved escargots!). When it was Niki's turn, she very bravely (do you see a pattern here? Niki is one courageous kid!) popped the snail in her mouth... and there it stayed. She simply could not bring herself to swallow the thing. We all urged and begged and ridiculed her but I think that the snail ended up in a napkin or something.
- Niki has a magnetic personality. Of course, I know this just from spending time with Niki (in class and in France). But further proof was offered in Nice, when we were on a walking tour. Our guide took us to a musical instrument museum (we couldn't actually go in because it was closed) and preceded to give us a ten-minute talk about the place. Or maybe I shouldn't say "us" because she basically stood about two feet in front of Niki and talked directly to her the whole time. It was equal parts amusing and uncomfortable. But Niki handled it like a pro. Impressive!
I know you have big plans for yourself, Niki (paediatrician, I believe). I wish you all the best. It was fun spending some memorable times with you in France. And I acknowledge you for all the hard work you exerted in PreCalculus 12. You were a very easy and enjoyable student to teach!