Hamber Teachers’ Advice to the Grads of 2023

(Left to right) Mr. I. Sembhi (Physical Education) and Mr. B. Gibson (Physical Education) | Photo Credit: Adelaide Guan

As the graduates of 2023 begin to say their final goodbyes, the Eric Hamber teachers who have watched them grow over the years have some advice to share. These teachers also reflected on the lessons they have been taught by their outgoing students.

Many teachers encourage the students to travel and grow, explaining that living life in an overly structured way is not always ideal. 

Ms. S. McEachern (Social Studies) said “to recognize that there’s no rule book to life” and that “the straight road is not always the most fun”. She also encouraged travel.

Ms. J. Polukoshko (English) insists that you should “find your joy,” whatever and whenever that may be. 

“Another thing is experience. Regardless of whether you're working or going to school, continue to have as many different experiences as you can.” Mr. H. Dial (Social Studies) recommended. 

Mr. P. Beharry (Theatre Arts) comments that you should explore different areas in life in order to find your true passion.

While recognizing that life is always changing, Mr. D. Lee (Science), recommends that the grads try to visualize their futures in order to help them achieve their goals. “I think that it is really important to have a vision,” he said.

Some teachers recognize that although there’s a lot to look forward to, grads should try and live in the present to get the most out of their last weeks of high school.

“Enjoy your last couple of weeks that you're here, but also know that there's so many great things to come after high school, so you should be really excited about, you know, moving on.” said Mr. I. Sehmbi (Physical Health Education)

Mr. B. Gibson (Physical Health Education) recommended doing as much as possible, saying yes to new things, and to enjoy your limited time in high school with your friends. “I would say do as many things as you can, and [...] spend time living in another country.”

After multiple teachers imparted their wisdom on these grads, they were asked to share how these students have affected them. 

Mr. H. Dial (Social Studies) and Mr. Lee mentioned how this group of students never fails to impress them. “The creativity that they have and their artistic abilities is way more than anything that I have,” said Mr. Dial. “I appreciate them taking chances in the classroom and being able to show off their creativity.”

Mr. Lee said that the Class of 2023 has taught him that “things are always changing. And [that’s] good because that’s my life model: lifelong learning.”

Mr. Beharry shared his appreciation for this group of students who had been struck with COVID-19 and managed to persevere. 

Mr. Sehmbi agreed. “They've gone through a lot, and I don't think I'd be able to do it, but they're really patient and resilient.”