"Have you ever really had a teacher? The one who saw you as a raw
but precious thing, a jewel that, with wisdom, could be polished to a proud
shine? If you are lucky enough to find your way to such teachers, you will
always find your way back. Sometimes it’s only in your head. Sometimes it is
right alongside their bed.”
-Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
I have been blessed to
have found amazing teachers and mentors throughout my school and college life.
Starting from my Class 4 House Warden who allowed me to supervise Nursery
students for 10-15 minutes in the morning which made me fall in love with the
idea of being a teacher, to the HOD of my undergrad college who was extremely
supportive and never lost confidence in me while I was going through a
particularly rough patch. I owe a large part of who I am today to my teachers.
They taught me so much more that just what was given in the textbooks!
To fully understand the impact of this undeniable #madeofgreat person in my life, I will have to back up a little and discuss about my undergraduate days, and that rough patch I just mentioned.
I was pursuing my bachelors in Economics, and thoroughly hating it! The teachers were good, the classmates not so bad either, and I was living in the city of joy, Kolkata, so it took me a long time to figure out what was so wrong that I consistently under-performed in my exams. In fact, I finished my Bachelors, enrolled in a Masters programme in a new city (because I really needed a change of scenario), and was already halfway through my Masters that I realized what was wrong.
I was starting the third semester of my M.Sc. course, and could choose electives based on my interest areas. One of the courses being offered was "Key Concepts of Ecological Economics" by a Professor who had done his PhD from Barcelona and post-doc from Harvard. And not only were his credentials amazing, I was already interested in Environmental Economics and wanted to learn about this new field too. And so, what started as a need to learn more about the ecological and environmental scope of my field soon turned into me finding what I think is my true calling. And I owe it all to the professor- Dr. J. F. Gerber.
Not only did he make me realize what went wrong with me during my undergrad coursework, which is simple terms, was my inherent objection to valuing everything monetarily. I didn't know anything about the incommensurability of values, the different languages of valuations that are being used in the different parts of the world, and the increasing need to search for alternatives to the growth theory, and yet I could not accept the theories and models I was being taught. Dr. Gerber taught me about these basic concepts which made all the sense to me. And it is not very often that someone, without any deliberate effort, makes you realize all the doubts and confusions you had were for a reason, and opens a whole new world for you. These people, who change the whole way you think come once in a while, and always stay with you, whether you actually stay in touch or not.
But lucky for me, I was so inspired I picked an ecological economics theme, and had the honor of writing my thesis under his supervision. And during that time, whenever I had any problems, doubts or difficulties, he always made sure to solve them for me, motivating me when I couldn't analyse the figures, or found hurdles in catching hold of people for interviews. What made him so amazing was his genuine concern to make sure that I stay motivated and get aid anytime I faced any difficulties.
And although today, due to my continued involvement in the field, I know a lot of other Ecological Economics scholars, he will always not just be the person who introduced me to the subject, but also the mentor whose comments will matter the most.
To fully understand the impact of this undeniable #madeofgreat person in my life, I will have to back up a little and discuss about my undergraduate days, and that rough patch I just mentioned.
I was pursuing my bachelors in Economics, and thoroughly hating it! The teachers were good, the classmates not so bad either, and I was living in the city of joy, Kolkata, so it took me a long time to figure out what was so wrong that I consistently under-performed in my exams. In fact, I finished my Bachelors, enrolled in a Masters programme in a new city (because I really needed a change of scenario), and was already halfway through my Masters that I realized what was wrong.
I was starting the third semester of my M.Sc. course, and could choose electives based on my interest areas. One of the courses being offered was "Key Concepts of Ecological Economics" by a Professor who had done his PhD from Barcelona and post-doc from Harvard. And not only were his credentials amazing, I was already interested in Environmental Economics and wanted to learn about this new field too. And so, what started as a need to learn more about the ecological and environmental scope of my field soon turned into me finding what I think is my true calling. And I owe it all to the professor- Dr. J. F. Gerber.
Not only did he make me realize what went wrong with me during my undergrad coursework, which is simple terms, was my inherent objection to valuing everything monetarily. I didn't know anything about the incommensurability of values, the different languages of valuations that are being used in the different parts of the world, and the increasing need to search for alternatives to the growth theory, and yet I could not accept the theories and models I was being taught. Dr. Gerber taught me about these basic concepts which made all the sense to me. And it is not very often that someone, without any deliberate effort, makes you realize all the doubts and confusions you had were for a reason, and opens a whole new world for you. These people, who change the whole way you think come once in a while, and always stay with you, whether you actually stay in touch or not.
But lucky for me, I was so inspired I picked an ecological economics theme, and had the honor of writing my thesis under his supervision. And during that time, whenever I had any problems, doubts or difficulties, he always made sure to solve them for me, motivating me when I couldn't analyse the figures, or found hurdles in catching hold of people for interviews. What made him so amazing was his genuine concern to make sure that I stay motivated and get aid anytime I faced any difficulties.
And although today, due to my continued involvement in the field, I know a lot of other Ecological Economics scholars, he will always not just be the person who introduced me to the subject, but also the mentor whose comments will matter the most.
To know more about the new collaboration between Tata Motors, and football legend Lionel Messi, another once in a lifetime alliance, check out http://madeofgreat.tatamotors.com/
Very nicely put! Now I can understand the roots of your passion towards degrowth. You always were one of the most talented people I knew, and its a wonderful thing that you found your calling.
ReplyDeleteAnd another aspect to this piece, is the role of mentors and teachers in life. Often they affect us in ways that change us, and define who we become. It's important to look back and acknowledge their contribution, like you have done here. Kudos.
Thanks Kishore!
DeleteI really have been blessed to have found some incredible teachers, all through my school and college life! Maybe I will write more about the other people who inspired me too soon, I guess.
wonderful piece. you're lucky to have a good mentor. :)
ReplyDeletethey are the most important influence in our lives, and you are a good pupil.
To be very honest, I put in more effort when the teacher inspires me.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThere're so much this piece, from self-realization to evolving as a person, to understanding what fascinates and interest you, to realizing and being grateful to those who mould you. You're one of the lucky few to have this enlightenment of sorts. Although economics in general goes right over my head, I'm happy (and slightly surprised :P) it's where you belong. Amazing writing!
ReplyDeleteWell, to be perfectly honest, it isn't what you traditionally know as Economics. Ecological Economics is as far away from mainstream economics, as you can possible go. So, I hope you aren't too surprised. :)
DeleteGood teachers with their wisdom help you steer through darkness, and motivate you to stand on your own. You are lucky you got such teacher.....A well-written post...!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Sunaina for your kind words.
DeleteGetting a Good teacher is like getting a boon from the gods. In fact teachers are revered more then god.
ReplyDeleteIndeed a nicely written post. I wish you good luck for the contest
Here is my answer
The association of Tata Motors with Lionel Messi is that of two greats. Lionel Messi has been exceptionally talented who with his hard work, determination and sacrifices has got better and tougher in his chosen sport so is the Image, reputation and quality of TATA Motors that have transformed brilliant ideas into masterpieces of engineering and created a brand and products that we are so proud of as Indians. Lionel Messi has transformed his body and the mind body co-ordination into a masterpiece of precision and excellence it would not be wrong to say that Lionel Messi is the TATA Motors of sports where as TATA Motors is the Lionel Messi of vehicles both giants in their own spheres driven by the drive to excel and lead by example. So Lionel Messi is the best choice for becoming the brand Ambassador for TATA Motors
aaloke19@gmail.com
Thank you Alok for your kind words.
Deletevery well expressed
ReplyDeleteAnd here’s my answer for the legendary assioction between Tata Motors and Lionel Messie:
Tata motors being the first Indian brand to associate itself with an international sports icon is truly being envied!. Yes! When two people with identical qualities merge, the brand power increases enormously. Just as expected Tata Motors is tasting it by the reach and vibrations it has created with its association with Lionel Messie.
With both’s determination, dedication and power to conquer in their respective fields- their collaboration is surely a big hit and #madeofgreat indeed
and if you haven't read mine..please drop in at
https://jeydv.wordpress.com/2015/11/17/madeofgreat/
Thank you so much.
DeleteI checked out your post about your grandmother. It is really inspiring too.
Your post defines #madeofgreat to the hilt. Goodluck for the contest
ReplyDeleteMy answer is:
Authenticity, reliability, simplicity, as well as its commitment to innovation are the pillars of strength on which TATA have built a brand that has put India on the global map. It is a brand that has stood the test of time just like Lionel Messi who tackles opposition on the field with his skill,agility,strategy,brilliance and raw power to reach and score a goal so has been the track record of TATA motors who has become a brand leader and a global giant. These qualities make TATA Motors and Lionel Messi perfect partners who stand for the same set of values thus Lionel Messi is the perfect brand ambassador to represent TATA Motors.
Hope my best to be a winner here; do contact me for the prize at mahima2014j@gmail.com
fingers crossed
Your post defines #madeofgreat to the hilt.Very well written and interesting post indeed.
ReplyDeleteMy Answer
Tata Motors is a brand that makes durable vehicles, with its MADE IN INDIA mark makes every Indian proud. It is a brand seen globally as Trusted, Reliable, Innovative and at the forefront of technology. In its journey since inception it has overcome all odds, competition, and adversities with grit and determination. These same qualities are associated with Lionel Messi who was very talented and hardworking from a very early age. With each game that he played he kept improving his skills and built a career to become one of the best player of professional football. There qualities make both TATA Motors and Lionel Messi giants who perfectly compliment each other and Lionel Messi the right and perfect Ambassador who stands for the same values that TATA Motors does.
bhuwan198grover@gmail.com
Yours is a very well written post your .Its is a very nice description of #madeofgreat
ReplyDeleteTATA Motors is a brand associated with performance, endurance and excellence. These words are also synonymous with Lionel Messi who plays as a forward and weaves his magic on the football field.Just as Lionel Messi is considered the best footballer in the world ,TATA motors which is Indias premier automotive manufacturer gives wheels to the people of India with its wide range of vehicles. Both believe in excelling in whatever they do and set examples for others to follow. They compliment each other as both are reliable trustworthy and leaders thus Lionel Messi is the natural choice as the brand ambassador of TATA Motors
yagneshbjoshi10099@gmail.com
Yours is a very well written post your .Its is a very nice description of #madeofgreat
ReplyDeleteTATA Motors is a brand associated with performance, endurance and excellence. These words are also synonymous with Lionel Messi who plays as a forward and weaves his magic on the football field.Just as Lionel Messi is considered the best footballer in the world ,TATA motors which is Indias premier automotive manufacturer gives wheels to the people of India with its wide range of vehicles. Both believe in excelling in whatever they do and set examples for others to follow. They compliment each other as both are reliable trustworthy and leaders thus Lionel Messi is the natural choice as the brand ambassador of TATA Motors
yagneshbjoshi10099@gmail.com
I really appreciate your professional approach. These are pieces of very useful information that will be of great use for me in future.
ReplyDeleteHey keep posting such good and meaningful articles.
ReplyDelete