Soon after I completed my Masters, I was a little confused about what to do next. During this time, one of our professors posted about a Bookworm vacancy in the University’s Whatsapp group. I always wanted to work in a school, but when I read about Bookworm, I changed my mind. I found out more by going through the Bookworm website. What really interested me was that they were conducting library sessions in schools, and that too in a different school each day! As I love travelling, I decided to try for this job.
A job in a library was kind of different in my mind. I thought the classes would involve a teacher who is reading a story with a stick and all – a serious class; but when I observed a session at Govt. Primary School, Panjim, it was totally different! I was really amazed at the way the Resource Persons were reading the story from an enlarged book. I was happy to see the children choosing books to read and the way they were responding during the Read Aloud. That day I really wanted to try reading a story to the children.
During my trial period, as I observed different classes, I became more and more interested in the job. As this was my first job I was very excited. I enjoyed traveling everyday to different schools; it gave me a different mood every day.
After observations I was told to assist in sessions. As I had observed many classes I knew my work. I was a little nervous but everyone was there to help, especially Deepali ma’am. All the team members at Bookworm were really helpful when I asked them anything.
When I was told to take the lead in Class 3 in Auxillium school, I was really nervous again. I practiced a Read Aloud with my niece and it helped me prepare for the session. My first class went well and I became confident. It was a different “good” feeling. I was also asked to lead sessions in Class 3 of Shri Saraswati Vidyalaya and Shri Mahalaxmi Vidyalaya and Class 3 & 4 in Govt. Primary School, Merces. I have developed a lot more confidence and experience since then.
I continue to assist in Our Lady of Merces School and 2nd Lt. J J Rane Govt. High School in Kudchire. Although Kudchire is a long ride away away from panjim, I really enjoy going there. Each day gives me something to learn and is a great experience. Spending time with children is the best job ever.