Eighteen With A Chalkboard

Chapter 20: Lines Outside The Office

As I walk out of the lecture hall, still buzzing from the energy of a great class, I notice something unusual down the corridor leading to the faculty offices. There's a line of students—quite a few of them—stretching down the hallway. At first, I assume they must be waiting for another professor, someone more established, maybe even a popular advisor. But as I get closer, I realize they're all clustered around my office door.

I slow my pace, trying to make sense of what I'm seeing. Am I missing something? Did I forget about an appointment? Just as I start to second-guess myself, I hear someone call my name.

I turn to see Dr Doughall hurrying towards me, a big grin on his face.

"Dr Doughall," I greet him, still feeling a bit off-balance. "Good afternoon."

He reaches me, slightly out of breath but clearly excited. "Mr Poland, have you seen this?" He gestures toward the line of students. "They're all here for you."

"For me?" I repeat, completely taken aback. "But... why?"

Dr Doughall chuckles and claps me on the shoulder. "They want to take your class! I've never seen anything like it. Students are practically fighting to get into your lectures. Word has spread, Mr Poland. You're the talk of the campus!"

I turn to look at the students again, their eyes now fixed on me, filled with hope. Some of them are holding petitions or forms, while others just look eager to talk. I can hardly believe it. This... this is beyond anything I imagined.

"They're asking to switch into your sections," Dr Doughall continues, clearly delighted by the whole situation. "A few of them even mentioned dropping other courses just to attend yours. It's not every day you see this kind of enthusiasm for mathematics!"

I feel a mix of pride annd disbelief swelling in my chest. "I'm... amazed," I say, shaking my head slightly. "I knew the students were responding well, but I didn't think it would lead to this."

Dr Doughall nods, his smile broadening. "You've got a gift, Mr Poland. The way you connect with the students, make the material come alive—it's something special. They see it, and they're hungry for more."

I look back at the students, a warmth spreading through me. This is what I've always dreamed of—truly inspiring others, making them see the beauty and excitement in mathematics. Seeing all those eager faces makes me realize that I'm on the right path.

"Well," I say, still a little dazed, "I suppose I should go see what they need."

"Absolutely," Dr Doughall agrees, his tone supportive. "But remember, don't let this overwhelm you. It's okay to set boundaries. You've earned their admiration, but you're only one person."

I nod, appreciating the advice. "Thank you, Dr Doughall. I'll keep that in mind."

With that, I make my way toward my office. As I approach, the students begin to straighten up. They start talking all at once, eager to explain why they're here. I raise a hand, smiling as warmly as I can.

"One at a time," I say, trying to keep my voice calm but welcoming. "I'll make sure to talk to each of you."

Opening my office door, I gesture for the first student to step inside. As they do, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of fulfillment. This—this is everything I've hoped for. The chance not only to teach but to truly inspire.

Right now, I feel ready to face whatever comes my way. For now, my focus is on these students, on their enthusiasm, and on the incredible opportunity I have before me.

The path ahead might be uncertain, but standing here, seeing the impact I'm already making, I know one thing for sure: I'm exactly where I'm meant to be.