I’ve just passed my one-year anniversary of teaching at my local college—a job I never knew I wanted until I was in it. Every time I step into a classroom, I’m reminded that teaching is more than delivering information. It’s about connection.

My students come from all over the world, bringing different backgrounds, experiences, and languages into the room. Many are international students, adjusting not only to a new country but also to learning in a second (or even third) language, navigating an unfamiliar education system, and often working whenever they can to repay the money their families—and, in some cases, entire villages—have invested in their education. I have immense respect for them.

It takes me back to my days as a service coordinator in Mississauga, where most of my clients were newcomers to Canada and ESL learners. That experience taught me the importance of explaining things clearly, ensuring understanding, and making space for questions—skills that now shape how I teach.

I also have deep empathy for my domestic students. As a parent to two college-aged kids, I know how hard this transition can be. Finding independence, balancing school and life, and figuring out what’s next is no small feat.

That empathy drives how I teach, how I connect with students, and ultimately, how I show up as a speaker and workshop facilitator.

Here are five ways teaching has shaped me:

No two classes are the same. Some students dive into discussions, while others hesitate. Some grasp concepts quickly, while others need more time. I’ve learned to read the room, pivot when needed, and ensure everyone is engaged—whether I’m in a classroom, on a stage, or leading a workshop.

Many of my students are in mandatory courses that they don’t see as relevant to their careers. (Take communications, for example—some don’t believe they’ll ever need it. Spoiler: they will.) My job is to make the material meaningful and engaging.

That same skill helps me as a speaker. I need to break down big ideas into something people can connect with and apply.

I make it my mission to get to know every student in my class, no matter how large the group or limited the time. I want them to know I see them, that I’m available—whether they have a question, need support, or just want to share something exciting, like landing a placement, acing a tough assignment, or (recently!) welcoming a newborn son.

This ability to foster a sense of belonging carries into my speaking and workshops, where I strive to create an environment where people feel valued and heard.

The best way to make a lesson stick? Tell a good story. Teaching has reinforced the power of narrative. A  well-placed anecdote can make concepts more engaging and relatable.

Best example? When I talk about using communication skills to network, I tell my students that I’m only standing in front of them teaching because I met and networked with someone who later recommended me for the job.

That skill translates directly into my public speaking and workshops, helping me connect with audiences in a meaningful way. I use my own stories in every speaking event (and trust me, I have a lot of them!).

Teaching has shown me that learning is rarely just about the material—it’s about the human behind it. My students are juggling pressures, expectations, and personal challenges, and they bring those experiences into the classroom. 

This has made me a more empathetic speaker, leader, and person. Whether I’m teaching, facilitating, or speaking, I now understand that true connection comes from seeing and honouring the people in front of me.

Teaching Has Shaped Me in Ways I Never Expected

This past year in the classroom has made me a stronger speaker, facilitator, and person.

If you’ve ever taught, spoken, or led a group, what lessons have shaped you? I’d love to hear about your experiences!

📢 Interested in booking me as a speaker or workshop facilitator? Learn more here: Open Sky Stories – Speaking Engagements

📰 Read more about my work in this recent feature: Open Sky Stories founder Erica Richmond inspires audiences to unlock their creative potential

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 Erica Richmond, the founder of Open Sky Stories believes that words have the power to provide connection & healing. Erica is public speaker and offers a variety of writing workshops and groups. Erica has published three books: Pixie and the Fox, Pixie and the Bees and The Mail Art Stories Project: Mail Art in the Time of Covid-19. 

She lives in Peterborough, Canada embracing her beautiful, imperfect, and very messy life.

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