What’s the Hardest Part of Teaching That No One Warns You About?

The emotional weight of teaching is something I was never truly prepared for. Beyond lesson planning and grading, I find myself deeply invested in my students' lives—their struggles, successes, and everything in between. Some days, I’m their biggest cheerleader, while other days, I carry the weight of their hardships home with me. It’s overwhelming to see a student struggle despite my best efforts or to witness the impact of difficult home situations. Teaching isn’t just about academics for me; it’s about the relationships, the empathy, and the unseen effort I put into supporting my students beyond the classroom.