Excitement
On the first day make sure your discussion is enthusiastic and passionate about their career choice.
I find that enthusiasm and excitement is contagious, just keep plugging along and most students will come around.
Passion for the field is essential and should be communicated to new students.
During my first day of class we do a few icebreakers that have nothing to do with the syllabus of the course. Both my 6 week and 12 week classes benefit from getting to know one another, put them at ease, encourage a little laughter, and let them know they are included and welcomed here!
John,
Sounds wonderful! I do think that outlining some of our 'misteps' helps them see us as human and take some of the fear out of failing.
Susan Backofen
As an instructor,I see this as the most important contribution which I can make to the orientation process. I tend to be very animated and enthusiastic about their career choice and back it up with stories about my own career in the field. I take pains to relate my own misteps and how I corrected them
It starts by loving what you do the rest comes naturally. If you are hesitant then they might be wondering. What are you doing, is this real, is it just so I can be another number in the school. When you have a passion for your job it will shine threw your body language your speech and your eye contact.
Thy will be more comfortable with going to your school because you were also upfront with them too.
Gerald ,
Interviewing is like any other skills, it takes practice. The more the do it and have feedback the better. I'm glad you encourage them to practice with you first.
Susan Backofen
Alot of people are naturally shy to speak in public. It is the same with interviews. I try to coach students by doing a practice interview with me.
Laurel,
So true. This is one reason why having faculty or others speak up and discuss their personal experiences--including fears and failures--is effective.
Susan Backofen
How do you ignite this enthusiasm amongst a group of strangers? New students are often very shy and unwilling to speak in front of their new peers.
