A Lifelong Passion: From Playing Teacher to Pursuing a Doctorate in Education

Chalk and Dreams: How Childhood Play Led to a Doctorate in Education

Story of Upasana Goswami Auckland, New Zealand, EIU-Paris Doctorate student

From my earliest memories, I was always drawn to playing the role of a teacher. With chalk and slate in hand, I would teach my toys my favourite superhero stories. This fascination with teaching stayed with me, even as I grew older and faced societal and familial pressures to pursue Science, intending to become an Engineer or Doctor. Despite these expectations, I managed to follow my passion and earned a degree in English Literature, followed by a post-graduate degree in Gender Studies.

Reflecting on my journey, I realize my love for the Humanities and Social Sciences was profoundly shaped by the inspiring teachers I had. They not only conveyed knowledge but also made the learning process enjoyable and meaningful. Their ability to help students truly understand and appreciate what they were learning left a lasting impact on me.

The Power of Inspiration: My Teachers, My Path to a Doctorate in Education

For the past seven years, I have been working in the Education sector, driven by my passion for teaching and learning. My initial foray into Corporate Social Responsibility was a significant step in my career, allowing me to engage with educational initiatives at a corporate level. However, my desire to be directly involved in teaching led me to pursue the Teach For India Fellowship. Those two years of teaching in a government school classroom solidified my commitment to educational equity and exposed me to the harsh realities and challenges, such as addressing learning disabilities through differentiated learning strategies. As a Fellow, I experienced firsthand the transformative power of teaching and recognized the urgent need for further research and effective implementation in various aspects of education.

A Multifaceted Journey: From CSR to EdTech to a Doctorate in Education

After my fellowship, my career path took me into the EdTech industry, where I assumed various roles, including Curriculum Designer, Auditor, and Manager. Each position added a new dimension to my understanding of education, yet my desire to engage in research and higher education never waned. As I prepared to move countries due to my spouse’s educational commitments, I faced the challenge of balancing a corporate career with my academic aspirations. It was during this transitional period that I discovered the opportunity to pursue a Professional Doctorate in Teaching from European International University-Paris

Receiving the doctoral scholarship from EIU-Paris is an incredible honour. It feels almost surreal to be able to pursue the highest level of research in an area that has captivated me since childhood, all while continuing to work full-time

Upasana Goswami

I am excited for the journey ahead, ready to learn, unlearn, and push the boundaries of my potential to contribute meaningfully to the global education system in the coming three years.

Coffee, textbooks, and existential dread – welcome to my life as a doctoral student in education! Wish me luck (and maybe send snacks). #EdDLife #TheStruggleIsReal

Upasana Goswami

Submitted by Dr J Anand of EIU-Paris on 22.07.24

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