Students that over share
I have run into several students that feel the need to over share their life story with me. Often times this happens outside of class discussions, on breaks or after class. More times than not they are stories of hardship, heart break, trauma in their lives. I want to be empathetic, but at the same time I don't really know what to do with the information, or why they are sharing so much of their life with me. I am a tender heart but want to have strong boundaries.
Sometimes I find myself in the same situation. A student came to me the other day and rambled on about her situation for a good ten minutes, and at the end, I told her, "Well, you still have to do it." She said, "You're mean!" And, then we both burst into laughter, and I told her I understood, and I was sorry for being mean. She hasn't given me any excuses since then.
Hi Dana,
It is okay to listen to students and be empathetic, but we still have to hold them accountable. It is fine to offer advice as much as you can based on your experience/expertise, but some situations maybe beyond your scope, and other professionals will need to help.
Patricia Scales
