From Journalism to Chalk Dust: My Calling to Teach Never Left

By Melyn Dumas

Not all educators begin their path with a degree in Education. Some are led there by instinct, heart, and unexpected opportunities. I am one of those people – my journey into the world of teaching has been anything but traditional, yet every step has shaped the teacher and mother I am today.

A Different Start

In 2005, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP). I dreamed of working in media – telling stories that mattered, giving voice to the unheard, and pursuing truth with my pen. But the world had other plans.

In 2006, just a year after graduation, I landed my first job as a preparatory teacher, handling Nursery and Kindergarten students. I specialized in Distar Reading, a method focused on phonetic awareness and early literacy. At that time, I had no education units or formal teaching background, but I had something else – passion. I genuinely loved being in the classroom. Teaching brought me joy, especially when I saw the sparkle in a child’s eyes after learning something new.

Despite my dedication, I had to leave that job. My health declined, and my salary could barely cover my needs. But those early years in the classroom were priceless. They taught me patience, compassion, and the desire to grow in a profession I was slowly falling in love with. I knew then – I wanted to become a real teacher.

My Nursey Pupils at Saint Maren Preparatory School

The Turning Point: Philippine Normal University

In 2017, I decided to formally pursue a teaching career. I enrolled in the Certificate in Teaching Program (CTP) at the Philippine Normal University (PNU), the country’s premier teacher education institution. This program was designed specifically for non-education graduates like me who felt the calling to teach.

CTP Class with our excellent Professor , Sir Nadz Gime

Before starting, I complied with all the admission requirements, including passing the entrance exam for graduate school. I committed a year to the program, successfully completing my academic subjects and field studies. Although I wasn’t able to finish my practice teaching due to personal circumstances, I was issued a Transcript of Records, which was enough to qualify me for the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET).

In September 2018, I took the LET with trembling hands and a hopeful heart. By December, the results came out – I passed. I was officially a Licensed Professional Teacher (LPT). It was one of the proudest moments of my life.

My Oath Taking Ceremony

Teaching, Then Motherhood

In 2019, I joined Barcelona Academy as an English teacher for Junior High School students (Grade 7) and also served as the Grade 10 class adviser. I handled various subjects, including TLE (Technology and Livelihood Education), and had the privilege to teach Creative Nonfiction to Senior High School students – a subject that felt like home, thanks to my journalism and writing background.

I was thriving in my career, but then came another life-changing blessing – I got pregnant. Unfortunately, my pregnancy was delicate. I was constantly sick and eventually had to go on early maternity leave. I was torn between pursuing my dream job and nurturing the child I had long prayed for. In the end, family came first. I chose motherhood.

My Grade 10- Wonder Students

A Different Kind of Classroom

Even though I stepped away from the traditional school setting, I never stopped teaching. Today, I teach the most important students of my life – my two sons, now aged five and three. We chose homeschooling for our eldest, and this gave me the opportunity to continue my role as a teacher in a more personal and intentional way.

Every day, I teach him how to read, count, question, imagine, and wonder. We go beyond textbooks – we learn through play, discovery, nature walks, stories, and hugs. Teaching my own children has given me a deeper understanding of what it means to educate – not just academically but emotionally and spiritually too.

My Children: Gohan and Goten

Looking Back and Moving Forward

My teaching journey didn’t begin with a degree in Education. It began with a desire to make a difference. From a Journalism graduate to a preschool teacher, to a licensed professional, and now a homeschool mom—I’ve worn many hats. And each role has taught me something valuable.

I may not be in a formal classroom today, but teaching is in my soul. Whether I’m writing reflections, sharing stories on my blog, or teaching ABCs at the kitchen table, I am still a teacher—called, chosen, and grateful.

“To teach is to shape minds; to be a mother is to shape hearts. When you do both, you change the world—one child at a time.” – Melyn Dumas