5 Questions with Chris Barnes

Chris Barnes, a native of Brinkley, St. Elizabeth, is a kind-hearted, humble, and self-motivated young man. He lives by the mantra, “Do what’s right for you and not what society deems right,” and this encompasses his journey as an educator.

Regardless of existing effort, time, and money, Chris relied on his innate passion and faith in God as he transitioned from one journey to another. Initially, he was studying Microbiology, but recently completed his tertiary education at the University of the West Indies, Mona, with a BSc. Degree in Biology with Education.

Throughout the years, Chris has evolved and matured into a 24-year-old man with a vision to impact the lives of the students of this nation by imparting academic knowledge through guidance and tutelage. With said vision, he has enrolled in a master’s program, pursuing his second degree in Educational Leadership and Management. He aspires to be one of the leading forces in Education Administration.

He enjoys the company of music and uses this medium as his getaway, motivation, and solace.

Like Chris, today we encourage you to make a passion change if necessary, take control because you are allowed to, and you should. The Education Jamaica Magazine has had the privilege to ask Chris Barnes five questions, and we hope his answers bring you inspiration and comfort. Enjoy!

1. Tell us a little about your educational journey.

I started university with the intention of “reading for a degree” in Microbiology. Though I tried extensively to find a passion for the area, I simply could not. This lack of enthusiasm, along with several other factors, drove me to make the life-altering choice to switch degrees. This was not an easy decision, but after assessing my position and organizing my thoughts, I realized that I needed to pursue something I truly desired. Rather than doing what my family or society intended for me, it was time I chose myself.

This breakthrough led me to Biology with Education as my new journey. It was at this point my academic life started to have meaning. I was finally able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Being freed from the bondage of society, I was now able to put myself first and make decisions that would ultimately lead me in the right direction.

Being the ambitious man I am, I did not stop at the undergraduate degree. Instead, I applied for my master’s in educational leadership and management, a very competitive field. My new journey to “read for my master’s degree” began almost immediately after completing my undergraduate degree. I am currently pursuing my master’s in Educational Leadership and Management. This will provide me with the necessary knowledge to one day manage an educational institution.

2. What would you say is most fulfilling about being an educator?

The most rewarding aspect of being an educator is witnessing the transformation of my students. As a science teacher, I frequently engage with students who believe that science is a difficult subject and that only a select few people can thrive in the area. By interacting with these students regularly, I can help them build an appreciation for the field. When motivating them through lessons, I can see the students’ frowns gradually disappear. Thus, I continue to broaden their perspective of the world, and, in return, they’d want to do better for it. This is what fuels me to continue inspiring through academia.

3. What is your primary source of motivation?

My drive stems from the fact that I am not only teaching students but also contributing to the nation’s future. I am passing on knowledge to the next generation and ensuring a future, one in which my students will be leaders in their rights, changing the world daily using the knowledge I passed on to them.

4. As a mental health advocate, share one way young men can protect their mental health.

Stop limiting yourself to the standards of society. The Jamaican setting is a commonplace to hear that males should be “tough” or that they should not cry or show too many emotions. This is a toxic trait in our society and can cause you to sink deeper into the negative mental state you are in. Build your guard up. Tell yourself it is normal if you are not doing well. You are not less of a man if you are struggling. Just because you have experienced some form of failure or shortcomings, it does not mean that you are less of a man. It simply means you are a living human being.

Pay no attention to what the world has to say but instead focus on uplifting yourself. For a time, it will appear impossible and may seem like something you cannot escape. That is when you need to ensure that you build up the courage to keep going and continue your journey. Always remember you are capable and that no matter the situation, you will make it out.

5. Share one piece of advice with young men out there on how to deal with failure.

It is not the end. I know it might feel like there is nothing beyond that point, but just keep at it and push even harder than you did before. Yes, you might fail repeatedly, but that still shouldn’t be enough to throw in the towel. Life has limitless outcomes, and you are the only one that can push yourself in the direction you want to go. You determine your destiny, so never give up because you can find that light at the end of the road.

Connect with Chis here!