Hana Lang
In recognition of this month’s outstanding educator, I am pleased to feature Ms. Dompor in our Teacher of the Month spotlight. A cherished guidance counselor and psychology instructor at Saint Maur, Ms. Dompor has become a go-to figure for students seeking assistance and support, particularly among the senior class. As our seniors navigate the crucial phase of university preparations, Ms. Dompor has taken the lead in conducting daily guidance classes, offering invaluable insights and advice. Her dedication to helping students chart their course toward a successful future has not gone unnoticed. Witnessing a line of students outside her office is a testament to the impact Ms. Dompor has made. Her genuine commitment to guiding students along the path to their academic and personal aspirations has truly set her apart.
Eager to delve deeper into Ms. Dompor’s personality beyond her professional role, we decided to sit down for a casual conversation, gaining insights into her hobbies and favorite interests. The interview began with an exploration of Ms. Dompor’s personal side, shedding light on the passions that shape her outside the classroom. From our discussion, it became clear that her dedication to students extends beyond academics.
Ms. Dompor with Mr. Alexander
Q: Where were you born?
A: “I was born and grew up in Manila, which is in the Philippines”
Q: What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of the classroom?
A: “I like building model kits!”
Q: Can you share a favorite book, movie, or TV show that you enjoy?
A: “One of my favorite books is Toshikazu Kawaguchi’s Before the Coffee Gets Cold.”
Do you have any favorite travel destinations or places you would like to visit in the future?
A: “Austria. My friend lives there and tells me that it’s a lovely place!”
As we all know, Ms. Dompor is not only a beloved guidance counselor but also the instructor for G11 Psychology. Curious about the journey that led her to this intriguing subject, we delved into the story of how she discovered and embraced the world of psychology.In our conversation, Ms. Dompor shared the origins of her fascination with psychology and how it became a central part of her professional journey. It was evident that her passion for understanding the human mind and behavior played a pivotal role in her decision to teach this captivating subject to Grade 11 students.
Q: What was your university life like?
A: “I had a full scholarship at uni, which required me to maintain a certain grade and be involved in extracurricular activities. I wasn’t sporty but I was involved in several service-oriented activities at the university.”
Q: Did you have any favorite subjects when you were a student?
A: “At uni? Neuroanatomy, Psychological testing, Counselling, Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry”
Q: How/why did you become a teacher?
“In my final year at uni, I did an internship at a school and loved the experience. So, after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, I worked on earning my teaching license. I had to take postgraduate courses for that. So, I was doing my postgraduate studies whilst I was working. My postgraduate certificate was on Guida00nce and Counselling with a specialisation in Career Counselling.”
Q: Can you share a memorable teaching moment or a lesson that had a significant impact on your students?
A: “ I leave this up to you, Hana. :-)”
Undoubtedly, Ms. Dompor has left an indelible mark on all of us navigating the complexities of preparing for our futures. Her reservoir of knowledge is seemingly boundless, as every question finds a thoughtful and informed response when directed her way. Yet, her influence extends far beyond the realm of academic guidance. Ms. Dompor has become a confidante for us seniors, providing a compassionate ear and valuable advice when we need a space to rant or seek reassurance. Her ability to listen attentively and offer meaningful insights speaks volumes about her dedication to not only our academic success but also our personal well-being. In a phase of our lives where uncertainty often looms, Ms. Dompor stands as a guiding force, even when we may not have a clear vision of our paths ahead. Her impactful skill set goes beyond merely answering questions; it lies in her capacity to support us through thick and thin and, crucially, to help shape our futures. As we reflect on the profound impact Ms. Dompor has had on our academic and personal lives, it becomes evident that she is more than an educator—she is a mentor, a supporter, and a beacon guiding us toward our aspirations. It is with immense gratitude and admiration that we acknowledge the significant role Ms. Dompor plays in shaping our journeys through education and into the vast landscape of our futures.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Psychology and Guidance? What made you want to become a teacher?
A: “Teaching Psychology allows me to teach about something I am fascinated about: human behaviour. Guidance is I think my core. I’ve been in this field for more than 20 years and I never got tired of doing it.”
In the simplicity of this interview, we can’t overlook the extraordinary impact Ms. Dompor has had on each of us, earning her the well-deserved title of Teacher of the Month. Her influence on us seniors goes beyond the classroom, transcending into the very fabric of our future endeavors. Whether it’s the shared joy of constructing adorable model kits or the triumph of securing coveted full scholarships and delving into advanced classes, Ms. Dompor has been the driving force behind these diverse accomplishments. Her ability to seamlessly navigate the spectrum of our interests and ambitions showcases not only her dedication but also her genuine passion for our success. As seniors standing on the brink of new and exciting journeys, we owe a significant part of our preparedness to Ms. Dompor. Her guidance has been a compass, steering us through uncertainties and propelling us towards success. It’s not just the academic achievements; it’s the life skills, the confidence, and the sense of direction she has instilled in each of us. So, here’s a collective expression of gratitude to Ms. Dompor. Thank you for being more than a teacher; you’re a mentor, a confidante, and the architect of our path to success. Your impact resonates far beyond the classroom, and we are immensely grateful for the indelible mark you’ve left on our senior year.
Hana Lang