Shalini remembers fondly her first official day of teaching 24 years ago, stepping into the classroom to face a group of tall, athletic Punjabi Grade 10 and 12 students. She was a nervous wreck, but once she began teaching, everything fell perfectly into place. In that moment, she knew she had found the profession she would carry with her for the rest of her life. The interest and enthusiasm of her students for the subject became, and continues to be, the greatest gift of her career.

Interestingly, she had never planned to become a teacher. She believed it was the most difficult job, one that demanded immense patience, and initially intended to pursue another career. Her first teaching experience happened almost by chance, when she helped out a friend of her father who ran a school. One thing led to another, and before long she decided to earn her degree in education, and she has never looked back since.

Most Meaningful Teaching Moments

There are countless moments Shalini treasures, but one of the greatest feelings is when former students return from university to tell her that their first year felt easy because they already knew the content from her English or TOK classes. Knowing that her teaching has empowered them to navigate higher education with confidence is deeply fulfilling for her.

What Inspires My Love for Literature and History

Shalini’s passion for Literature and History comes from the remarkable teachers who once taught her. They helped her discover books beyond the classroom and inspired her to visualize the worlds that authors create. Their influence shaped not only her academic interests but also her identity as an educator who strives to bring stories, ideas, and history alive for her students.

Awards & Recognition

Shalini been honored with several awards throughout her career:

• Shanghai Qibao Dwight School – Award for contributions as a leader and educator
• Dwight School Dubai – Award for leadership and educational impact
• University of Chicago – Educator of the Year

She values these recognitions deeply, yet the most meaningful reward will always be the love, respect, and appreciation her students show for the subjects she teaches.