Gurjit Gill – “It is an honour and very gratifying to get the opportunity to make a difference in a young person’s life.”

Sometimes school students are lucky enough to look back on their education with fond memoriesof teachers and principals who played an important role in their lives. In Gurjit Gill’s case students get a two for one deal. Gurjit has been at the American School of Ulaanbaatar (ASU) for 4 years – her first years as a teacher; she’s now in her second year as Principal. The students know her well – most like her (bar the few that wait uncomfortably outside her office) and absolutely each and every one them respect her.

Principal Gilloriginally hails from Kingston, Ontario in Canada and also has Indian heritage. She’s petite, but packs a lot of punch. I ask her why she persued a career in teaching and she tells me that, “Being an educator is one of the most meaningful professions one can have.”

She also likes to quote K. McCauliff, who said, “I touch the future, I teach.”And touch the future she does.The Managing Director of the ASU Oyunsuren D, who has been with the school since its inception, has nothing but the highest praise for Gurjit saying, “she is a fabulous, educated and open minded person who understands Mongolian culture, family and kids. Gurjit knows how to meet the demands of this fast growing country and the school. We are very proud of her and her accomplishments here in our school.”

I too know Gurjit personally both professionally and as a friend. Quite simply – she’s a natural leader – admired by her colleagues, yet not arrogant about her influential role at one of Mongolia’s best schools. She beams, “It is an honour and very gratifying to get the opportunity to make a difference in a young person’s life.”In Australia we have a saying for genuine people like Gurjit – we call them “fair dinkum.””

Just before the start of the school year Gurjit told staff, “I’m excited; we’re all here for the students. When they arrive the place lights up.”Gurjit has a real “take charge” personality which is upbeat and positive. You can feel the enthusiasm in her voice over the loud speaker each morning as students at the ASU begin their day. “Good morning Students!” echoes through the halls everyday like a scene out of High School Musical.
Some of Gurjit’s accomplishments include things like helping the ASU attract a growing number of international students over the last few years. Many chose the ASU because it’s a socially responsible school, not only because Gurjit demands a green and clean environment, but also because it has a positive influence in the local community. Every year the school provides donations which go to helping orphanages and School # 60 in Yarmag including food, computers, chairs and tables.

Sharon Ellis from Ohio whose own two daughters Jerilyn and Jenette attend the school has nothing but the highest praise for Gill, “As the principal of the American School of Ulaanbaatar, Ms. Gill aims to make ASU known as ‘The Home of Future Leaders.’ She not only desires that students excel now, but acquire the necessary skills – academically, socially and physically – to help them achieve success in their future. She supports her staff and daily interacts with students and parents to ensure excellence in education.”

And what does Gill have to say about the ASU? She proudly describes it as “a wonderful community to be part of.”

Q&A Time

-Describe your first visit to Mongolia

-I arrived late at night and didn’t see much. However, with the dawning of the day I was wonderstruck at the beauty of the country. The mountains rose up all the way around the school and the view was breathtaking.
-What is the best thing about living in Mongolia?

-The best part of living in Mongolia are my students!

-How has UB changed since your fist visit?

-Immensely! When I first arrived 4 years ago ASU and the Zaisan Monument were the only landmarks (other than the gorgeous mountains). It is unbelievable to see the growth and development that is taking place so rapidly in UB.

-Describe a perfect weekend in Mongolia.

-The perfect weekend involves going to the countryside, riding horses, hiking, sleeping in a ger and enjoying the peaceful nature.

-What’s your advice to UB newcomers?

-UB is for intrepid adventurers (including driving!). UB offers many diversions and something for everyone can be found here. You can have as much fun as you want or as little as long as you stay ever mindful of cultural differences and keep your sense of humour handy. Mongolia is the kind of place where the journey of discovery leads to oneself.

-Is there anything you can’t live without in UB?

-My sense of humour.

-Have you managed to learn any Mongolian?

-Now therein lies the rub! I speak 5 languages but find Mongolian pronunciation beyond my immediate grasp! Mongolian is a difficult language and no wonder Mongolians can learn other languages so quickly!

-What’s your favourite UB restaurant/s?

-I enjoy all kinds of cuisine that is prepared by others …..particular favourites are Indian and Korean restaurants.

-What’s your favourite pastime or something you like to do to relax?

-Exercise, read and enjoy some good conversation with friends (not necessarily in that order!).

-Picture Ulaanbaatar 20 years from now and tell me what you see.

-Megacity, first class airport, no corruption..…booming economy that improves the lot of the underprivileged, ASU alumni as leaders and no traffic snarls…that’s the dream.

-What is your favourite Mongolian food?

-Khushur!

-What music do you listen to when you are stuck in UB traffic?

-Eclectic…..something that is faster and more upbeat than the molasses like speed of traffic.

-Who inspires you?

-Who doesn’t? I seek inspiration everywhere ….the heart, family, love, books, children, people.

-What was the last book you read?

-Stumbling upon Happiness – Daniel Gilbert

-Do you have a favourite quote or motto to live by?

-Carpe Diem and B+ (which is also my blood type!)

-If you could have dinner with 5 people who would they be?

-My family!

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