Overcoming Challenges and Finding Community:
Linda Menezes's Journey
My journey with Cornerstone began in 2023 with a clear goal in mind: I wanted to pass this certificate cum laude. However, I underestimated the intensity of the workload that awaited me. Having completed my BA Hons in Psychological Counselling at the University of South Africa, I thought this program would be easier than my honors degree. The PGCE program was anything but that. The program was well-structured and challenged me academically and personally, preparing me for the real world and the realities teachers face daily. It required me to become more organized and challenge my habits. I was curious to learn more, which led me to ask countless questions. Nonetheless, my lecturers and fellow students were very patient and helpful.
I completed the Post Graduate Certificate specializing in the Foundation Phase in just one year. Throughout my journey, the support and assistance of my lecturers and fellow students were invaluable. I formed friendships and gained a community. At the beginning of the semester, my peers nominated me as a class representative. I facilitated communication between students and lecturers. Looking back, it was a challenging yet rewarding experience that I am proud to have accomplished. With my PGCE, I have more options and opportunities open for me. Currently, I am an IC lecturer and tutor. This role is rewarding, and I am very passionate about it.
I want to express my gratitude to my loving and supportive husband and my boys, aged 4 and 10, for being patient and supporting me throughout my studies. When I had classes, they would make dinner and pick up the slack. Being a mom and studying is difficult, but having a support system makes all the difference. I created a support group for the “Super Moms” studying PGCE on WhatsApp, and we guided and lifted each other when the days got long.
I have been living with epilepsy since I was a teenager and made a small WhatsApp group for learners with disabilities. At first, most students were apprehensive, and I urge all students to reach out to like-minded individuals and form support groups. To all students, whether you are working and studying, or a mom and studying, or living with disabilities and studying, this is achievable. Do not procrastinate and put your mind to the mission at hand; you will come out the other side better, and be prepared for the realities you will face when you apply yourself. To the Super Moms, your children are looking up to you, you are a role model, and they are watching your perseverance and achieving your goals. To the learners living with disabilities, you are proof that our disabilities do not influence our IQ. I wish you ALL the best of luck; you’ve got this!
“The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.” – William Arthur Ward.