I have said this many times but I will say it once more.  Being a young woman of Asian descent has given me more heartache than one can imagine.  I have been told regularly that I look younger than my age and I can acknowlege this because I believe it.  I have told many colleagues, friends, and peers that I feel “inferior” sometimes because of this.  It is a general stereotype that Asians tend to look alot younger than they are and to an extent, I believe it is true.  I have gone through many experiences when I feel that my appearance is detrimental to my quality of life.

Practicum is one example of how looking young and tiny works against me.  All of my students tower over me.  Some of them even look older.  Psychologically, I feel unauthoritative.  How do I overcome this?  I tried to compensate by dressing older and wearing some makeup.  Maybe I will even put my hair up.  I decided this week to wear heels so I feel “taller”.  All of this is in my head because none of these external modifications can change how mature of a teacher I am.   I am also vertically challenged.  This only contributes to the frustration of looking young.  Recently, I spoke to a teacher and she expressed the same sentiments.  She told me about her battle with YAS and the reality of teaching.  Be tough but nice.  That’s all it boils down to.  Do not give in to them!

How will I overcome this innate feeling of inferiority?

1. I will continue to present myself maturely.  That is, I will address students with respect and demand the same level of respect back.

2. I will not give in to students who try to coerce me into doing something that I don’t believe they deserve.  Ie. Friend staying in the class with them; leaving to buy food; doing other work in class; not bringing in their homework

3. I will present myself professionally.  Continue to dress appropriately and look groomed.

4. Do not talk down to students.  This is the last thing I should do in my position.  It makes me seem extra bossy than I am or should be.

This is an interesting post but legitimate nonetheless.  I am sure I am not the only one who deals with this.