The Disappearance of Six Hundred Students

Amanda Goh 

On Wednesday, 7 October, dreams came true in Dalat. Students became doctors, astronauts, princesses, ballerinas, and engineers, while teachers relived their experience as students again, as the roles were switched.

            During Spirit Week, one of the days was themed Teacher-Student Swap. This year all the teachers and students from Pre-K to the seniors were included; the oldest and the youngest of the community came together to dress up for this fun event. Throughout the day, students asked each other what they wanted to be when they grow up and giggled at their teachers’ school outfits.

            During recess, little kids—dressed in lavish costumes—pretended to act out the daily duties of their career. Doctors started treating their patients on the playground and giving injections to their “sick” friends. Chefs cooked for a busy restaurant, making sure the orders were organized. Pilots flew planes safely towards the airport, while artists painted on the trees. The imagination that flowed from the kids was incredible; Dalat was filled with magic as big dreams were finally accomplished.

            The older kids also showed their passion by dressing up creatively.

“It was wonderful to see the teacher-student spirit in participating during the swap day,” Samuel Tan (12) expressed, showing his happiness in seeing the unity of the Dalat community. A lot of students participated which also made it fun.

Some, sadly, realized they had no hope. Kai Fraser (12), who dressed as a hobo, said cheekily, “Teacher-student swap day was an interesting experience and I finally got to know what it’s like to become my future self for a day.”

            During lunch, seniors left school in their career attire, gaining the attention of the local people at the food stalls. An unusual combination of a chef, businesswoman, engineer, and mom were seen sitting together at a table, perplexing the people surrounding them.

            When the bell rang, signaling for the students to return to their classes, loud chatter started to quiet down. Although students entered the classrooms again, they still continued to act like their aspirations.

 “Send me the lab results once you’re done,” whispered scientist Sidharta Selvaraja (2) to his lab assistant. This craze-filled day gave the Dalat community a chance to be who they want to be; instead of limitations, students and teachers could finally explore the wonders and magic of their imagination and dreams.