Acting your age
I am a DVM teaching in the vet tech program. I am younger than many of my students and look it! How to I establish a position of authority without being too harsh or abrasive and still gaining their respect?
I believe demonstrating you have solid experience in the field also helps. When the students realize you understand you know what you're talking about -- that helps.
Additionally, if you give clear expectations and set clear standards students know that can see you are competent, that can help.
The main thing -- I think, is be yourself. Don't be afraid to let your enthusiasm about your content excite your students.
Good luck!
Anna,
Start with confidence. As the learning leader for the class you need to be organized and a model of what you expect of your students. You may even mention that you have a youthful appearance but you have gone to school and worked for a number of years and this gives you the knowledge and expertise to help the students move closer to their career choice. Through your language, dress and conduct you can send a very clear message that you are there to help them but they need not try to run over you as you are in charge.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
