Get Your Students Hired
It seems that every class I have, the subject of dropping out comes up. I notice a connection with my students that tells me they know that I "get it" when I tell them my true personal story. I almost dropped out of my master's program years ago due to the death of someone close to me. One particular professor of mine was instrumental in making me hang in. I am forever thankful to her. I feel she payed it forward.
People in general will respond better when they know you can relate to them.So, telling your story can be helpful just knowing how much to tell and not being boastful. But, always encourage the students letting them that we as instructors had to start someone and never give up.
I love this story and believe it or not majority of the students have a story. I come to realize that we or more than just instructors to a portion of the students they rely on us not just to help them get an education but to be a mentor. I learn it's a good listen and ask questions because everyone a story. Stay positive...
Somtimes a fresh set of eyes on a problem will bring a solution that is very attainable and makes sense to the student. It is important to lead them to a solution rather than telling how to fix it.
mr. mennis is so right , I also tell my students the same thang , I also tell them I went back to school and that it is harder going back and having to relearn subjects that I have done for so long.
I agree on that, sharing different experiences in the field helps a lot to connect with the students. It helps in their confidence.
David, why do your stories leave you vulnerable to criticism? Should you re-evaluate their value?
So true. Effective mentoring usually involves discussing personal experience on a higher level. I sometimes tell stories to my class which make me vulnerable to criticism. These stories however, are a catalyst for a student relationship which may sustain a student's desire to stay in school.
I agree with you. If the student sees you can relate to them, they will be more willing to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
True, but the anecdote must be relevant for the student(s) to understand its value. We've all seen people who think their experiences must be of interest to everyone else and take great delight in telling tales from the trail.
What a great story, Joseph! Experiences like this keep us engaged and enthusiastic about the process of changing lives.
Great thought. Giving some personal anecdotes that can truly relate to a students situation can make the difference.
Connecting with students is key.
I recently had an encounter with a student who was not from any of my classes but I noticed him in the hallway one day looking rather down. I asked what the problem was and his response was a myriad of answers personal in nature. I said without getting too personal, that life was full of events that challenge us and make us think the only correct answer is to give up...I told him to stop and remember why he came to school in the first place. We talked a few more times on later dates...Each time I interacted with the student I noticed that he had a renewed resolve to school. I told him many times that if he threw the towel in now he might not ever get a second chance and that he should stay the course...
I am please to say that he took that advice and recently graduated. He stopped by my room to thank me personally for reaching out in his time of need and that he would never forget the lesson it taught him in staying focused on his goal and moving forward...This is one great reason why we do what we do...
I find it does take extra time to connect and listen to your students. But, creating a supportive environment where you take interest in their success and problems, show you care and tell them they can succeed will generate better performance and success.
You can really encourage a student by relating personally to their situation. It is even better when you can tell them how you overcame the problem. Give them hope.