Alena Djukin (she/her/they/them)

About me

I was born/grew up in: I was born and raised in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. I am a second-generation immigrant, my father is from Estonia.

I now live in: Currently living in Fairbanks, Newfoundland and Labrador.

I completed my training/education at:  BSc (Biology) and BEd (Technology) from Memorial University of Newfoundland, and on the job experience in pet grooming and animal care.

What I do at work

I have the pleasure of teaching Science, English Language Arts, and Technology to students in junior and senior high. In the English courses, I teach such things as poetry and story writing. In Technology courses I teach how to use the design process, how to create podcasts, and computer coding. My background allows me to spend time in the Science lab and the Technology lab with students. I use a wide range of equipment related to Science and Technology. Some of these are Micro Bits, Raspberry Pi's, Microscopes, Vernier LabPro equipment, and 3D printers. My STEM background allows me to be the best Science and Technology teacher I can be. I was taught to use the design process when solving problems or responding to a big question. I also use the scientific method when I engage in lab activities with my students.

My career path is

I did not expect to be a teacher when I was in high school! I had decided at the time that I was going to pursue my love of animals and go to veterinary school. I took as many Science courses as I could in high school. Then I applied for a Bachelor of Science at Memorial University. I decided to major in Biology and minor in English because they are my favorite subjects.

While attending university, I had several part-time jobs. These helped me realize a career in education was what I was meant to pursue. I worked in the biology department cataloging taxidermized birds and microscope slides. I was a kennel attendant at a doggy daycare. I worked as a grooming assistant in a grooming salon. I also volunteered with the SPCA in their thrift store and shelter. After I had a few years volunteering with the SPCA, I was asked to help with the outreach presentations to Girl Guides and Boy Scout groups. It was here I realized that I enjoyed interacting with young people. I loved sharing my knowledge of animal care.

I also worked for the Johnson GEO Centre, where people can learn about the geology of Newfoundland and Labrador. During this time many school groups come through for field trips. I worked in the gift shop where we sold rocks, minerals, and fossils. I would spend a lot of my time learning about these things so I could share my knowledge with the visitors.

When I finished my first degree, I applied to the Technology Diploma and Bachelor of Education for Intermediate/Secondary. At the time, all positions had been filled. I was put on a waiting list to get into the program. I was so disappointed! A few weeks later, I was working as a COVID safety officer on a film set in St. John's when I got an email offering me admission to my program of choice. I was so excited that I sent back my acceptance within five minutes!

I am motivated by

Science labs, Technology design projects, and Novel studies are some of my favorite things I do with students. While the course curriculum I teach is fun, extracurricular activities are where I can share my interests and hobbies with my students. This year I am hoping to start a Lego Robotics team with my school. I also help run an Outdoor club that gets students into fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities. Last year, I taught myself and my students how to play Dungeons and Dragons. It was a great way to practice math and storytelling skills. It was rewarding to learn something new alongside my students. We still have weekly lunchtime meetings to continue our campaign.

Last year, some of my students wanted to start a softball team. They needed a teacher to sponsor and a coach. I had to learn about this sport and then learn how to coach it! It was a daunting task made easy when it is done for students you care about. I know that this is the right career for me because I love learning. I get so excited to come in and share my knowledge and learn alongside students every day!

How I affect peoples’ lives

I really enjoy being a teacher! I know that what I do affects my students because they want to learn more about topics they would never have heard about unless it were introduced in class. I will never forget the first time I brought the 3D printer into my classroom - I don't think it stopped printing for weeks!

There is truly nothing more fulfilling to me than knowing I have made a positive impact on a young person’s life. Sometimes something as simple as a smile can make a student’s day. My career matters because I am part of a group of people that will inspire the next generation. I hope that I can create memories and experiences with my students that influence them to become great people.

Outside of work I

Outside of work I enjoy reading, painting, video games, rug hooking, and cooking. I also love activities that take me outdoors. These include such things as fishing, berry picking, hiking, sea kayaking, camping, outdoor rock climbing, gardening, and cross-country skiing.

My advice to others

Broaden your horizons. Having a background in multiple areas of employment or volunteer work gives you a perspective on life that you may not have if you immediately pursue education. I have so many stories, experiences, and skills that I can relate to my teachable areas. This is because of the work experiences that I chose during high school and my first degree. Try saying "yes" more - take every opportunity that comes your way and challenge yourself. If you don't like it, at least now you know what you don’t like!