PGCE student Ania Mucha-Stypik
Trainee teacher Ania Mucha-Stypik from Poland explains what life's really about for her – and what led her back to teaching. She's just started London Met's PGCE Secondary in Modern Foreign Languages.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background, and what brought you to London Met in particular?
I studied philosophy and later languages at University of Lodz in Poland. I substituted at schools as a language teacher of French and English as foreign languages. I chose London Met mainly because I live nearby – and of course there was a course that I wanted to take.
I spent 10 years working for O2 Telefonica as an advisor, a manager and finally a territory coach, where I could help teams to perform their best, bring new ideas and have so much fun at work, being able to see people getting better in their jobs. It was a bit like teaching again but without having to stick to the curriculum.
Last year I worked for Christie's in their operations department. A complete change of environment, office work with so many new things to learn and being surrounded by art almost every day. It was a fantastic experience, but I missed teaching.
What made you want to study in London?
I've always wanted to live here. When I moved to the UK, I had been living in York, which is a beautiful city, but there was not enough to develop my interest and follow my personal growth.
What's your favourite part of the course so far and why?
All the lectures connected to learning theories and cognitivism in general. I also enjoyed learning about the importance of reflection in a teacher's work.
How have you found the professors / teachers?
I find their lectures and workshops very interesting. So far everyone has been professional and kind.
What's your first school placement been like?
I was quite apprehensive at first, with the long commute, and time and cost connected to it. But I've now had my first full lesson! It went great, I loved it! I loved it twice as much when some boys from Year 8 came to me saying "Miss, thank you for teaching us, it was fun". And then another one stayed on his lunch break to finish the French game we started. The kids were so helpful and active (don't get me wrong – I messed up here and there – mainly timings due to IT equipment and my lack of enough training on a school interactive board!). I got some good feedback and I need to work on a few things, but I felt like a fish in water once again.
I'm learning in the lectures and workshops – and from the university staff, our supervisor Amanda and other lecturers, also people here in the school – they all have so much knowledge to share. I am trying to take it all on board and cannot wait to keep practicing the new skills.
What drives you?
Dynamics... I don't like sitting still. So any environment where I can use my body to express myself (dance, capoeira) will make me happy. I love being with people (like-minded and those whose views challenge mine) and learning from them. I also love challenge, and being able to positively influence someone's life or even just a part of their day.
What are you most proud of in your life so far?
Graduating from university as the first person in my family, who supported me in this journey. Learning new languages as adult. Career turns and changes. Also, the places I have managed to visit and get to know. I am also proud that I have amazing people in my life who call me their friend.
Do you have a favourite place within the University and why?
Probably the main square outdoors where all the induction day activities were happening; as PGCE students we were alone for a moment when it was sunnier and emptier – and it was great (no queues for my decaf americano ;))
Have you used any of the services at London Met – and if so, how helpful have they been?
I used the student money and advice service when I needed to amend my loan. They were very helpful and efficient.
Tell us a little bit about your interests outside of uni and why they are important to you.
As above, I dance forró – Brazilian dance, and am learning Zouk. I am a part of a Capoeira group called Senzala. I love travelling and escaping the tourist paths while doing so. I am a very bad (yet very keen) beginner surfer. I also love using other languages to communicate with people. All these things are important because they make me who I am. They allow for expression and a momentary detachment from everyday worries. They are also challenging and constantly throwing me out of my comfort zone. They really make me think that's what life is about.
What's your plan when you graduate, and how do you think London Met will help you succeed in this?
Hopefully, I will have Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a PGCE at the end of it. I'd like to then engage in teaching and pursue a master's if possible.
Any tips for students new to London Met?
I am still a new student so I really need the tips!
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Find out more about our teaching courses at London Met.
"I love being with people (like-minded and those whose views challenge mine) and learning from them. I also love challenge, and being able to positively influence someone's life or even just a part of their day."