By Ameya Nagarkar

Whenever I’m teaching a new formula or theory there’s always one student who asks, “But Mr Nagarkar, how does this apply in the real world?”

It’s one of my favourite questions because I’ve got plenty of answers: there would be no aeroplanes without Newton’s laws of motion, no cruise control in your car without factorising equations, and no scientists or mathematicians without the teachers who came before them.  

I’m constantly amazed at how one tiny equation can lead to all these incredible discoveries. It’s like a single domino knocking down a whole row of big, exciting ideas​​.​ That’s why I love teaching, too.​ 

Every day I have the chance to steer a student towards their future. Every little thing I do has a real and concrete effect on my student​s​’ lives.  

If you’d told a younger version of me that I’d be a teacher, I never would’ve believed you. I was set on following in my family’s footsteps and becoming an engineer. But somewhere during my university studies, I realised I was drawn to help people in other ways.  

I found myself volunteering for leadership activities and tutoring students. I used an alternative pathway to get into teaching, which offered me the chance to complete a Master of Teaching while working in the industry.  

After more than eight years as a high school teacher, I can say this job has led to more innovation, impact and progress than I ever expected. Every class is unique, every group of students is unique, and every day with them is a fun problem to solve. I genuinely look forward to sharing the laughter, the logic and the “aha” moments.  

I feel like I’ve found my calling in teaching. While I’m still learning about all the things I love, I now have the privilege of sharing that passion with others.  

Just like engineers who leave behind structures that withstand the test of time, I’m leaving behind a foundation of knowledge that students can use to build their futures. In both roles, the impact we have is not just measured in numbers but in the people we impact and the lives we help shape.   

If you have a passion for a subject and want to share it with the world, it’s worth considering a career in teaching. If you’re anything like me, you might just find there’s more to this profession than meets the eye.  

I never thought I’d become a teacher. Growing up in a family of engineers, I always thought I’d follow the same path. Turns out, life had other plans. Now, I share my passion for Maths and Physics with a classroom of teenagers every day, and I love every second of it.  

Looking back, I can see that my passions and interests were signs that pointed me towards teaching all along. So, I thought I’d share some of those signs with you. Who knows? You might see some of these traits in yourself. 

You feel that helping others is impactful. 

I’ve always found great joy in helping others, even as a young child. Back then, I thought engineering would be my way of making a difference. But now I can see that the impact I have on students can last just as long as any scientific breakthrough.  

Beyond the textbooks and lesson plans, we shape students into the best versions of themselves. It’s why almost every adult can remember their favourite teacher – our impact stays with students long after they leave school.   

You enjoy sharing your unique skills and passions. 

A common misconception about teaching is that you have to love public speaking. What really matters is conveying passion and knowledge in a way that resonates. 

Think about the last time you recommended your favourite book or show to a friend, and how easy it was to talk about. Passion is infectious, and your enthusiasm could be the spark that ignites a lifelong pursuit for a student. 

You value the opportunity to shape the next generation of young Australians.  

Knowing your stuff is important, but being a great teacher requires more than knowing facts and figures. It’s about empathy, compassion, and making real connections with your students.  

Understanding where students are coming from and being there for them – that’s what sets the best teachers apart.  

You want to help create a society where diversity is celebrated and respected. 

Teaching is your chance to be a champion for inclusivity. Having a cohort of teachers that reflects the society we live in is an important part of this. Coming from a migrant family, I’ve noticed how students benefit from interacting with teachers who share a similar background to them.  Creating a classroom where every student is seen, heard and feels valued can have a powerful impact for all.  
 
I have also personally experienced the benefits of having more teachers from diverse backgrounds. I’ve seen how it can encourage curiosity and enhance respect across the wider school community.  

You want opportunities to learn and grow professionally, financially and personally. 

Almost everything I’ve learnt about great communication has come from my career as a teacher. You may be surprised to learn that teaching can open doors to many opportunities. I’ve had the chance to expand my knowledge, attend leadership workshops, and even speak at the World Economic Forum in New York.  

Whilst job stability is certainly a benefit of the teaching profession, it also offers a range of growth opportunities – whether it’s progressing into senior leadership roles, learning new innovative teaching methods or simply switching subjects or year levels.  

You enjoy variety in your work.  

If you thrive on novelty and change, there’s nothing like working with young minds. I get to adapt to the day as I go, all while seeing growth and progress happen right in front of me. As a teacher you’re constantly exposed to new people and thinking, which is inspiring and rewarding. 

Thinking about the future and what humankind can create, excites you. 

I’ve always been excited about innovation. Sharing that passion with students means I get to sow the seeds of the next big ideas before they’ve even made it into the world.  

By instilling a sense of curiosity and wonder, and encouraging their young minds, we pave the way for everything they could create once they leave our classroom.  

You’re open to the idea that great talent is built, not born. 

Ever heard the saying “practice makes perfect”? Well, it applies to teaching too. Sure, some people might seem like natural-born teachers, but the truth is, it’s a skill that can be learned.  

I never expected I’d be considered as an outstanding teacher. I’ve found that with dedication, passion, and a willingness to learn, anyone can become an exceptional teacher.  

This article was originally published as part of the Be That Teacher campaign organised by the Australian Government. Read more inspiring stories of teachers and their impact at bethatteacher.gov.au  

Ameya Nagarkar is a STEM teacher based right here in Brisbane, at the Fortitude Valley State Secondary College. He is a QUT alum, and founded QUT’s first meditation and yoga club, MY Time. He was also part of the Golden Key Honour Society and a student ambassador. He is passionate about education, health and wellness.