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The rest of the week passed in a blur of lectures and assignments. Despite my attempts to focus on my studies, my thoughts kept drifting back to Professor JM. His words from the other day replayed in my mind: “I appreciate your effort in this class. It doesn’t go unnoticed.”

I wasn’t sure why it mattered so much. Maybe it was the way he said it—calm but deliberate, like he meant every word. Or maybe it was because he’d taken the time to acknowledge me, something none of my other professors had done.

Whatever the reason, I found myself paying closer attention in his lectures, determined to live up to his expectations.

---

On Friday afternoon, after a particularly engaging discussion on social hierarchies, I stayed behind to ask Professor JM another question.

“Sir, could you elaborate on how cultural norms influence social stratification? I found the lecture fascinating but wanted to dive deeper.”

He raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by my question. “That’s a complex topic. Cultural norms often dictate the roles people play within a society, which in turn influences their position in the social hierarchy. It’s not always fair, but it’s how many systems have evolved.”

I nodded, absorbing his words. “Do you think it’s possible to challenge those norms effectively?”

A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. “Absolutely. Change begins with understanding. The more people question existing structures, the more likely they are to create new ones.”

For a moment, I forgot I was speaking to a professor. It felt like a genuine conversation, two people exchanging ideas.

Before I could thank him and leave, he surprised me with a question of his own.

“Junno, do you have any plans this evening?”

The question caught me off guard. “Uh… not really, sir. Why?”

“There’s a faculty-student mixer at the auditorium tonight. It’s an informal event to encourage interaction outside the classroom. I think you’d benefit from attending.”

I hesitated, unsure how to respond. “I’m not really sure if I’d fit in, sir.”

“Nonsense,” he said, his tone firm but kind. “You’ll do fine. Besides, it’s a good opportunity to network and meet people who share your interests.”

His encouragement was enough to sway me. “Alright, I’ll go,” I said, trying to sound confident.

“Good,” he replied. “I’ll see you there.”

---

That evening, I stood outside the auditorium, feeling slightly out of place. The thought of mingling with faculty and students was intimidating, but I reminded myself that this was a chance to grow.

Taking a deep breath, I walked inside.

The room was warm and inviting, decorated with string lights and filled with the hum of conversations. Tables were scattered around, laden with snacks and drinks. Groups of students and professors were engaged in animated discussions.

I spotted Carla and Mark near the refreshments table and headed over to them.

“Junno! I didn’t think you’d show up,” Carla said, handing me a cup of punch.

“Yeah, neither did I,” I admitted. “Professor JM suggested I come.”

Mark smirked. “Figures. He seems to have taken a liking to you.”

Before I could respond, a familiar voice cut through the noise.

“Junno, glad you made it.”

I turned to see Professor JM standing a few feet away, holding a glass of what looked like iced tea. He had swapped his usual semi-formal attire for a more casual look—dark jeans and a fitted black shirt that somehow made him even more striking.

“Thank you for inviting me, sir,” I said, suddenly feeling self-conscious.

“I didn’t invite you,” he replied, a hint of amusement in his tone. “I encouraged you. There’s a difference.”

I chuckled nervously. “Right. Encouraged.”

“Have you met anyone interesting yet?” he asked, glancing around the room.

“Not yet,” I admitted. “But it’s nice to see a different side of the university.”

He nodded, his expression thoughtful. “That’s the point of events like this. To remind us that we’re part of a community, not just isolated roles.”

Before I could respond, a group of students approached, eager to speak with him.

“Enjoy the evening, Junno,” he said before turning his attention to them.

I spent the rest of the mixer mingling with other students and even a few professors. By the end of the night, I felt more connected to the university than ever before.

As I walked back to my apartment, I couldn’t shake the feeling that Professor JM’s encouragement had pushed me to step out of my comfort zone.

Little did I know, this was just the beginning of how he would continue to challenge and inspire me.