We are Mentors
When I walk into the classroom, I see myself as a Mentor for the students. When I reflect on my college experiences, I wish I had instructors who were mentors - I feel that young students do not necessarily have the skills or the confidence yet to seek out mentors - through such activities as networking...etc. Therefore, I can easily be that for them and help encourage them to look beyond the school for mentors that might more closely match their career goals if what I offer is not the best match.
Hi Scott,
Right you are. Many times having that mentor behind them helps the students to get settled into their new positions and feeling like they can be successful. They know they have someone in their corner should they need some support and advice.
Gary
Not only is the instructor a mentor, but every staff member on campus. However,the individual instructor is the closest person to the student. we must not forget that when the student graduates and enters the work force that this may be the most important time in the students life to have a mentor to help them transition between school and thier new career.
It is important to not only be a teacher, but also a mentor and a role model. There is nothing like receiving information from someone who has already been through the process.
Hi Marie,
Good point about how to encourage students and keep them engaged in the learning process. They need to have this encouragement so they will stay in school and see the benefits of what they are learning.
Gary
I think that many students who attend Career Colleges have low self-esteem; possibly because they were unsucessful in a "traditional" college. We need to teach but also to coach. In order to build up their self-esteem, we need to be cheerleaders encouraging them every step of the way. Once their self-esteem is increased they will be open to the idea of being a success.
preparation
presentation
positive productivity
these three will bring about an elevated level of self-esteem, intergity and self value.
I whole heartedly agree. I had similar experiences in my own college experience and find that if I can bring that aspect to the classroom as well, then I've done a large part of my job.
Hi Dana,
A mentor is a very valuable part of the learning process. If students can how they are being encouraged and supported by their instructor then mentoring is being offered. Those that are on the bubble of quitting often remain in class if they know their instructor cares about their success and is willing to invest in them.
Gary
