THE PEOPLE WHO FORMED GENERATIONS

The hearts of the educational system, a second set of parents, friends, and protectors—the first ones that come to mind when looking back on their academic journey—are teachers; a mainstay in the lives of every student across the globe. With enough patience to rival that of all the venerated saints combined, teachers have witnessed nearly everything in a student's journey, from their laughter to their tears, and have said hello and goodbye to many. It makes one think, "How do we pay back these people who taught us to learn, grow, and dream?"

World Teachers' Day was first celebrated on October 5, 1994, to honor teachers who transform education, and also to reflect on what they need to make their efforts truly bear fruit. The majority of people worldwide believe that teachers are not paid enough for the work they put into the profession, especially those who work in the public sector. Some ask to raise the quality of education, to improve their working conditions, and to have better treatment in general. The emotional turmoil the teachers had to undergo during the pandemic, listening to students and dealing with their own struggles, was nothing to scoff at either. People seem to forget that teachers deal with issues beyond just education, as they have also become a strong support system for a multitude of students.

With the longstanding and comprehensive history of the University of Santo Tomas came many teachers, professors, and mentors who have carried and passed the torch of wisdom among the bright students of the institution. This is evident in the university's achievements, where Thomasian students consistently pass board and licensure examinations with flying colors, and have produced various notable figures such as Apolinario Mabini, Manuel Quezon, May Parsons, and Clarita Dieran Curato, among others. None of this could have been achieved without the efforts of the teachers who taught them; yet they often get overlooked and are rarely appreciated.

Encompassing the 3C’s of the University and being model nurses, the College of Nursing Faculty continues to share the legacy and knowledge cultivated for 80 years. Whether they’re surrounded by classroom walls or ward curtains or equipped with laptops or pens, our teachers have shown their excellence and prowess in both fields of nursing and education. They share not only knowledge and theories but also wisdom, tips, skills, and most importantly, their passion and love for nursing with us. They ensure that we’re prepared and equipped both mentally and physically to provide the best quality care that a Thomasian nurse can give, and in doing so, allow the whole Thomasian nursing community: students, faculty, and staff, to flourish and become exemplary professionals and people.

In remembering their efforts and hard work, let’s say thank you and show appreciation in our own ways. It isn’t impossible to put our phones down and wholeheartedly listen in class to show respect while they’re teaching; to show that we listen to what they feel passionate about. To show that they did make an impact by carrying their teachings far after we’ve said goodbye, to prove that they can genuinely change lives. Sometimes, the best thing you can do for a teacher is to live out the lessons they left us with; to carry their hopes for us far beyond their expectations.