I also have not thought of a graduate as a guest speaker. I generally invite therapy directors and specialist.
Yes it certainly does bring it to life, you will find that the students love it and will step up there attention and interest. best of luck.
Like many healthcare schools, we require all students complete an externship in a real office, before they can graduate. Having a former student come back to the class after their externship, is beneficial on many different levels. The students listen to every word they have to say because now it's from "one of their own".
Another bonus is having the student reassure the class that the material we cover in class is actually very useful in the day-to-day operations of an office.
We utilize both graduates and individuals from the field come and talk with the students. They give the students not only a different perspective but also a break from their full time instructors.
I have used a guest speaker and it really brought the topic home to the students who may be working in the same field.
I plan on using one for my next class hoping it will bring the topic to life in the real world.
I like haveing quest speakers come into the class it shows the student another voice other than yours, explaining the alot of the same facts that you have been instructing to them but from someone out in the feild they are going to work in and in many cases i beleive that would motavate the student that is starting to doubt themselves or the career feild of there choice.
I feel this is one of the best ways to encourage students to continue with the program. While on their clinical externship,the students may hear how difficult it is to get that first job after graduation. When a recent graduate speaks to the class, they realize it's not that hopeless. The may have to accept a per diem position at first which may become a full-time job.
Hi Roxsie,
Yes! Guest speakers are priceless! They bring book theory to real life! Students thoroughly enjoy having guest speakers. Guest speakers are very inspiring.
Patricia Scales
I like the idea of having guest speakers come and talk to the students. Especially recent grads who are working in the field. It gives students the opportunity to ask questions and get answers from someone who has "been there done that".
This is true, I have had many guest speakers make presentations in my class and the students enjoyed it very much asking questions and really speaking to someone who is in the field daily.
Students can see that there have been others in their situation that prevailed therefore encouraging these students.
A graduate guest speaker can be very motivating and inspirational to students that are struggling. I have done this many times and I can say that it has always had very postive outcomes. If you have never done it I say give it a try and see what happens.
Hi Jon,
Yes, guest speakers are definitely proof in the pudding! Guest speakers let students know that they too can be successful!
Patricia Scales
We have quite a few graduates that speak to our students. They show that it is possible to succeed no matter how difficult it seems at that time. The new students also ask plenty of questions.
It gives them someone to relate to and be encouraged by. It shows them that they can be successful.
It lets them see the end result. Someone that may have once been in their exact position. Which will reignite their motivation.
Even though they have me as a 'guest speaker' for 3 months, haha, they get a chance to ask questions about the 'real world' that may eliviate some large concerns they may have.
Good morning Ondrea!
I totally agree that guest speakers can help students see where their education can lead them. The more information students have at their disposal, the better. Options are some of the best things we (instructors) can give to students. Great post!
Nichelle Ancrum
Good morning Deborah!
I agree that a guest speaker can be the difference between success and failure for a student that is discouraged. Instructors are placed (sometimes) in a no win situation. You can truly give your all to a student, and it is not enough. Sometimes, having them talk to someone who does not hold gradebook in their hands is less threatening easier to be open and honest with. Great post!
Nichelle Ancrum
Good morning!
I have yet to use a guest speaker in my classes, but am beginning to see just how much of an asset they are or can be to a classroom setting or instruction. Guest speakers are valuable in talking with students who are discouraged or about to quit my course for the following reasons:
1. Students can gain a different perspective on things outside of the instructor;
2. The monotony of the class's "usual" agenda is altered; and
3. The student can ask more career related questions to someone with hands-on knowledge of a particular field.
Nichelle Ancrum
I had great success with a former student coming into and discussing her personal and professional successes. She graduated 2 years ago, and has recently accepted an instructor position right back here at our school !
