Thank you for supporting my dreams: a teacher’s letter to her parents
Dear Mum and Dad,
Growing up, you taught me values that have become the foundation of who I am today. Your dreams for my future were rooted in hard work and the pursuit of excellence. Our cultural background played a pivotal role in shaping my early career decisions.
I vividly recall the moment when I first realised my calling, during my internship at Education Queensland. Meeting inspiring teachers, who saw their profession not just as a job but a way to give back and serve their communities, was transformative.
Telling you about my career choice wasn’t just a conversation; it was the revelation of a life purpose. Your unwavering support, however, wasn’t immediate. Your initial reactions of surprise and concern were understandable given the hopes of a medical career you’d held for me. It was a challenging moment, but deep down, I felt a sense of certainty that teaching was a calling that aligned with the values you had instilled in me.
In time, you came to appreciate and support my decision to pursue teaching. Your support and understanding in my career choice means the world to me.
I am grateful for the moments when you expressed great respect for my career as a teacher. Seeing that teaching opens doors to advanced postgraduate education, allows me to participate in international conferences and has the power to effect change, filled your hearts with pride.
I love teaching because it has equipped me with unique skills. It has taught me how to be a leader and helped to build my overall confidence. Teaching continually pushes me to grow professionally and personally, and I love that I play an important role in helping to shape future generations.
As a teacher I’ve learned the importance of demonstrating the passion and drive to be the change we wish to see in the world.
Your support has been the wind beneath my wings, and I am grateful for every step we’ve taken together on this incredible journey.
With love and heartfelt gratitude,
Your daughter Tran
For more information on a career in teaching, visit: www.bethatteacher.gov.au/english
About the author
Tran Mirciov is a lead teacher at a private school based in Queensland. She was honoured with the Karen Spiller Teaching Fellowship in 2023 and was also a finalist for the Primary School Teacher of the Year at the 2021 Australian Education Awards.
