unsure student
I teach at a technical school and one of my students has uproached me that he is just not sure he wants to learn this as a profession. I advised him that something interested him enough to sign up and start school in the first place.He does seem to be very interested in class but he is just wondering if it is right for him.Do any of you have any suggestions on how else i could try to advise him.If he realy doesn,t want to do this than he probably shouldn,t.
Christopher--
Excellent point on all accounts. Recognizing their fears and challenges is important.
Susan
There is always an air of excitement during the admissions process about all the wonderful things the student can achieve by completing the program. However, when some students realize the effort, sacrifices, and time that is required to complete the material, they get cold feet. I feel it is important to encourage them as much as possible but let them understand that they have to make a decision and a commitment. I would encourage you to determine there ultimate goal and practically illustrate how your teaching/training will help them achieve that goal.
Gerald--
That is very interesting. Clearly they enjoyed your teaching.
I think this might be more common that we think. Probably the majority of people who leave after the first week feel the same way, they just don't tell anyone.
Susan
I have had students go through the first week of a class on the last day of the week come shake my hand and say, it was nice meeting you but this is not my sort of thing. Wow you wonder if they did any research at all.
Thomas--
Right you are...there is usually more than one factor at play and they are often hesitant to say anything. It can be quite demoralizing to admit you have issues like that and, they feel they are the only ones going through it. Taking the time to really find out what is happening and then hooking them up with the appropriate resources is key.
Susan
Student Services might be the answer. If the student is having money issues then the student NEEDS the help of some other services also, I find that when a student is kind going both ways and kinda on the fence so to speak-- There are usually some underlying issues that have not been brought to the top yet. Try to give incouragement and a good job now and then and try to get him to use the schools faculity to help out wherever they can IE:Food Pantry, Tutoring on his schedule, and the like.
Tom
Scott--
Does your school have any career interest inventories? It might be helpful for him to do a little more research about what types of careers might be a good fit. Sounds like someone suggested this path, but he really isn't sure. Perhaps someone in career services could be of assistance to him.
Susan
