3T: Kindly introduce yourself and tell us how it was like growing up.
Thejasanuo: Hello! I am Thejasanuo Khezhie from the Department of English. I was born and brought up from Kohima. I studied there till my 12th standard after which I stayed in Shillong for 5 years to pursue my graduation and post graduation. After the completion of my post graduation I returned back to Nagaland and decided to pursue further studies. Currently, I am pursuing my PhD and teaching at the same time.
Growing up was fun! I could only describe my childhood as shenanigan- filled-moments!
3T: What inspired you to be a teacher? And why did you choose English? How rewarding is teaching a subject that you are passionate about?
Thejasanuo: To be honest, I never really thought about taking up teaching as my profession until I went to college and university. I was taught by amazing teachers. They were not only “teachers” but even as a person they were such awe-inspiring people.
I took up English literature because for me, there’s no other subject that allows creativity, knowledge and freedom to coexist as much as literature does. And to be able to teach something that I am passionate about makes me forget that I am working but rather, learning.
3T: What is a typical day like in your life?
Thejasanuo: Well, it usually starts with a hearty breakfast, classes, rest, reading and a good sleep!
3T: Is it hard being a working woman in Naga society? How do you tackle the problems that you face?
Thejasanuo: I am grateful to be working in such a time as this. All thanks to the predecessors who have paved the way for us to be able to pursue our dreams.
3T: What is the best and worst part about your job?
Thejasanuo: Teaching is one of the most prestigious jobs because it gives the opportunity to shape not only a student’s career but also to impact their wellbeing at the same time. With that being said, I’d also like to add that teaching is an underrated profession! The worst part is yet to be discovered and hopefully, I don’t ever get to discover it!
3T: Is there any raging societal issue that you would want to be solved at the earliest? Why and how does it disturb you?
Thejasanuo: There are so many capable youths in our society that need a little bit of nudge to strategise their skills, which is why capacity building is the need of the hour. Given an opportunity, I would gladly get involved in any activity related to this.
3T: How would you describe yourself in 5 words?
Thejasanuo: Optimist, ambivert, adaptable, conscientious and (a big time) foodie.
3T: Vocational education and recreational activities along with quality education are so important for the all-round development of a student. Do you think that the educational institutions in Nagaland are putting in enough effort to cater the needs of students?
Thejasanuo: I think the coexistence of vocational and recreational aspects of education has been overlooked in the past. But today, it’s safe to say that to some extent the scenario has undergone a shift. Educational institutions here in the state are putting efforts to mould not just the highest scorer in the class but also the best sportsperson and so on. There is still a long way to go but yes, it’s gradually improving.
3T: What is your greatest strength and weakness?
Thejasanuo: Being an optimist has its pros and cons so I’d say that is both my strength and my weakness.
3T: Can you tell us your hobbies?
Thejasanuo: Well, music is such a mood changer so I like taking quick breaks by playing the keyboard or listening to music. On days when work is light, I prefer to binge watch movies, read a fictional novel or bake something in the kitchen.
3T: Have you ever wished to meet any fictional character in real life? What character is that?
Thejasanuo: Yes, there is a list actually! To pick one, I’d like to meet Jo March from Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women.
3T: Describe the next five years of your life, and your plans.
Thejasanuo: If all goes well, even in the next five years or more, I would like to continue teaching.