A video of one voice teacher's sweet reaction to the news that his former student will be starring in a Broadway production has gone viral.
The video was posted to TikTok on Wednesday by Talia Suskauer, who wrote: "We did it, Craig!" It has since amassed more than 3 million views and thousands of comments from tearful viewers who expressed that a teacher's "unconditional support" is "life-changing."
In the clip, Suskauer tells her childhood voice teacher, Craig, that she's landed the role of Elphaba in a Broadway production of Wicked while Married Life (from UP) by Sergy el Som played. Upon hearing the news, Craig throws his arms up in the air, cheers and wraps Suskauer in a big hug.
"I told you when you were 12," he said. "Oh my God, I'm so happy for you."
The two share several more hugs and Suskauer expresses that she'd like Craig to see one of her shows.
"You're gonna have to come to New York," she said.
"Oh, I will now, for sure," Craig reassured her.
Viewers were touched by the interaction, and many used the video as an opportunity to praise teachers.
"Teachers are amazing. Life-changing," wrote Emily Feret.
"A teacher's love and commitment to their student's dreams and passions is unmatched. Such unconditional support," wrote Megan.
"I'm crying. As a musical theatre kid, my teachers and coaches made me who I am and it's so special to be able to share a moment like this with them," commented meredithbull.
Natalie Rifai added, "He's genuinely so happy for her, that's soooo sweet! Teachers are such a blessing!!!!"
As it turns out, a positive teacher-student relationship can impact students long after they've graduated.
According to Waterford.org, a national education nonprofit organization, research suggests that positive student-teacher relationships not only lead to increased school engagement and student achievement but may also help students develop "self-determination" skills. Positive student-teacher relationships may also impact the relationships a student forms outside of the classroom.
"After a student has a meaningful connection with their teacher, they're more likely to form similar relationships in the future," Waterford.org explained.
Speaking to Education Week, an independent newspaper focusing on K-12 education, first-grade teacher Valerie Ruckes said, "[B]uilding relationships with students...is probably one of the best investments we can make with our students."
Some viewers were so moved by Craig's relationship with Suskauer that they sent money to Suskauer via Venmo to help cover the costs of Craig's trip to New York.
"Donated. Please come back and show us the video of you telling him!" exclaimed one TikToker.
"Donated!!! So excited for you both, this is so pure," commented Carli Rappaport.
Newsweek has reached out to Talia Suskauer for comment.
In related news, a high school teacher recently went viral for sharing that a student told her to "get help." And in December, teacher Austin LeMay went viral for performing the Jerk, a popular dance move, in his school's courtyard.
About the writer
Sara Santora is a Newsweek reporter based in Florida. Her focus is reporting on viral social media posts and trends. ... Read more
