Dream Job

When I was young and little, my sunny Saturdays and vacations would be spent with my cousins in our little nipa hut just behind our house where my cousins would act ala students and I would be their teacher. I would read to them stories and teach them how to write in beautiful cursives. In high school, I tutored neighbors’ and family friends’ little kids to read and write English. In college, I make money by tutoring people to communicate effectively in writing and speaking. I didn’t know that those little instances that I’m teaching would hone one delightful dream.  All this time, I was actually working towards a career. I didn’t thought that those little split seconds spent with students and sharing to them what I know would be what I would want to do in the real life.  I just realized that I want to teach. I want to be a professor.


At first, I found it strange that I would want to be a professor. Professors, in the first place are depicted as the most un-cool people on earth. Often times, my professors give me the idea that being a professor is a drag. In the second place, my parents would not be so happy if I break it to them that I don’t want to be a lawyer. My mother’s been rooting for me to become a lawyer since birth. And lastly, teaching is such a tedious job and it really doesn’t pay that much, too.

The idea of pay is the most haunting part. It wouldn’t be much, I’ve asked actual professors, but I don’t know why my calling seems to be particularly persistent and unfailing. Believe it or not, I’ve been having dreams that I am already a professor. I’ve spent nights making course syllabi on World, American, Contemporary and English Literature courses. It’s insane but I cannot deny it. I see myself as a professor, loving it and actually enjoying what I do.

As a professor, I will be able to choose my own direction. I will be able to share my ideas on young people thirsty for fresh, new facts. I love the freedom it will give me, and at the same time, I will be perpetually empowering and improving myself. I will participate in a great era of discovery and will enjoy other’s fascinating discoveries. I will enjoy pleasant travels through conferences and workshops. It would be a social job and at the same time a mental challenge. The opportunity of working with people who often see the world for all its possibilities is something I will definitely treasure. And the autonomy to pursue ideas rather than merely implement the ideas of others is something I would not trade. For all my mentors who inspired me, for those people who truly love their jobs, thank you for making me tell the world what I want.

I'm tired of lurking this dream inside my head, afraid that I would disappoint my parents. I don't want to wake up one day not enjoying what I do. So I'm telling the world now.


This is my personal legend. Finally, I know where I am going. I’m on my way.

I will make being a professor look fun. Promise.