Guest Speakers
I try to have former students and professionals come into the classroom as guest speakers. It allows the students to see someone succeed in their field. I have invited former students to discuss the licensing registration process and what it was like taking their licensing boards. The present students are able to see share their worries and ask questions related to this important topic.
Robbin
Career fairs are common place at my school and people from the industry and local companys really give the students a great chance to see where they will be going after graduation.
Kerry ,
I too think giving some printed background information is a great idea. Nothing stirs up a student's interest better than a good field trip or interesting guest speaker.
Barry Westling
I love to have guest speakers come into class, but I never thought to give them an informational sheet about my students. I love that idea! It would probably help them understand the different levels of students I have at any given time. I have a modular program so I am getting new students every six weeks. It is exciting for the students to meet a recent graduate of the program and hear about what they are doing in the field. The other thing that is exciting is taking the class on fieldtrips. They get to see first hand how the setting will work for them or not. There are many different types of settings for my students to work in, they just need to identify what their passion is and match the type of setting.
Kerry
Tina,
I can't be specific for your geographical area or category of training you're providing. But in general, here are some ideas to make contact with: manufacturer and dealer representatives; textbook and media salespersons; local civic clubs (Rotary, Soroptimist, Kiwanis, Lions, etc.); local medical society; professional trade association (i.e., "national association for....). Where do your students end up working? There may be individuals from that sector that are willing speak. One often overlooked resource are graduates themselves. Where these folks lack experience, they usually make up for in terms of enthusiasm, optimism, and they are familiar with the program, school, and achieving successful outcomes. Good luck!
Barry Westling
Students tend to get really excited when guest speakers come who they can identify with. There are a lot of different organizations who assist you in finding guest speakers. Do any of you know any resources in the medical field that assist with guest speakers.
ROBBIN,
It's interesting that students will respond favorably to recent grads, perhaps because they are closer to one of their own. Regardless why, recent grads usually bring enthusiasm and expectations for optimism to the current class.
Barry Westling
