5 Life-Changing Lessons I Learned as an NTC SmartClass Student

I started my education in a traditional classroom—desks lined up in neat rows, teachers writing notes on the board, and bells dictating every moment of the day. It was orderly, but the structure often felt rigid. Mistakes were discouraged, creativity was stifled, and learning became more about following rules than exploring ideas.

In many ways, it felt like we were robots—programmed to obey, avoid mistakes, and complete tasks without questioning too much. Over time, I grew hesitant to take risks, and my enthusiasm for learning began to fade.

Everything changed in Grade 6, when the whole world had a taste of homeschooling. For the first time, I experienced a different way of learning, one that felt more flexible and personal. I enjoyed it and knew I could thrive in this approach.

So, when I graduated from Grade 6 and it was time to choose a school for junior high, I turned to my grade school teacher for advice. They introduced me to SmartClass and explained how it offered a unique approach to education. That conversation gave me the clarity I needed to take a bold step forward.

When I started Grade 7, I made the leap into SmartClass homeschooling. Convincing my parents wasn’t easy—I had to explain how this shift would not only improve my education but also my overall happiness and growth. Looking back now, I can confidently say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

The transition to SmartClass didn’t just give me a more engaging and personalized learning environment—it opened my eyes to my long-term passion for sustainable development. My parents were more than thrilled to see me thriving and were proud of the growth they saw in me, and that support fueled my drive to pursue ambitious goals, from leading community initiatives to exploring innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

Not only did this new approach reignite my love for learning, but it transformed how I viewed education altogether. Suddenly, it wasn’t just about memorizing facts for tests—it became about uncovering passions, solving real-world problems, and building skills that truly mattered.

Through online brainstorming sessions for group projects and unforgettable online and face-to-face events with my schoolmates, I realized that learning wasn’t just about academics—it was about creativity, connection, and discovery. My SmartClass journey has been anything but ordinary, and along the way, I’ve learned five powerful lessons that reshaped how I view learning—and life itself.

Homeschooling means taking full responsibility for your education. There’s no one to remind you when to study or enforce a strict schedule. At first, I struggled—what started as “five more minutes” of procrastination could quickly turn into two hours.

But SmartClass taught me the importance of structure. Without a school bell to dictate my day, I had to create my own routines and hold myself accountable. Assessments like the Integrated Project-Based Assessments, or IPBAs, weren’t about memorizing facts—they pushed me to apply what I’d learned in meaningful ways.

Now, I’m not just someone who gets things done—I thrive under pressure because I’ve learned to manage my time and goals independently.

In traditional school, I used to stress over grades, treating them as the ultimate measure of success. But SmartClass changed my perspective. Tests here aren’t about chasing the highest score—they’re tools to gauge genuine understanding.

Take the IPBAs, for example. I didn’t just study sustainability; I created a project to promote urban gardening and eco-friendly habits in my community. That wasn’t just a grade—it was a life experience that gave me real-world skills.

Now, I see learning as something bigger than a number on a report card. It’s about developing knowledge and problem-solving skills that will serve me for life.

At first, I thought technology in school was just about “less writing and more typing.” But SmartClass proved me wrong. From virtual labs to collaborating with classmates across the globe, technology wasn’t just a convenience—it was a game-changer.

Of course, there were challenges. One time, my internet went out for an entire week just before a big IPBA submission. Instead of panicking, I adapted—finding workarounds and using what SmartClass had taught me about resilience.

Tech isn’t just a tool—it’s a skill. It’s helped me become resourceful, adaptable, and confident in navigating a digital world.

Imagine this: It’s a Wednesday morning, and instead of being stuck in a crowded classroom, I’m working on an IPBA at my own pace, music playing in the background, and a snack by my side.

This kind of flexibility was a revelation. It gave me the freedom to structure my day in a way that worked for me, and with that freedom came creativity. I had time to explore passions like songwriting, video editing, and graphic design, which I even incorporated into my projects.

SmartClass isn’t about squeezing everyone into the same mold. It’s about giving each student the space to discover who they are and what they’re capable of.

If you think homeschooling means sitting alone with a laptop, think again. SmartClass has built a vibrant community, both online and in person. From virtual group activities to face-to-face events, the connections I’ve made are as real as any friendships I’ve built in the past.

One standout memory is our last in-person event—laughing, playing games, and sharing stories over food. Moments like that remind me how strong our community is. As Student Council President, I’ve had the chance to lead projects and help organize events, which taught me that education is about more than just individual achievement—it’s about making a difference together.

---

As I approach the end of my SmartClass journey, I know I’ll miss it deeply. The friends I’ve made, the lessons I’ve learned, and the memories I’ve created will always stay with me.

SmartClass has shown me that education isn’t just about textbooks and tests. It’s about discovering who you are, uncovering your passions, and building a foundation for a meaningful life. Though this chapter is coming to a close, its impact will stay with me forever.

                                                         Go Back to the 3RD ISSUE PAGE