I never really had mentors. I had folks that helped me, but did not take on that role. Having a support system of people that have "been there, done that" certainly helped me in my initial quest for my undergraduate degree. Those that have gone through the process before me, knows first hand the challenges and road blocks that I may face. Gaining insight from them helped me to make the right decisions with regards to my career choice. Not having them in my life is something that I do not want to think about, for they shaped my choices and career goals.
You always remind them they are here to reach a goal and change their life. We give student of the month awards. Some of these students have never been awarded anything so it really does give them confidenance.
Thanks, Gina.
It is great to hear that positive affirmations have had such a positive impact on your life.
What are some of the specific things you do in your school to help your students develop similar attitudes?
About 26 yrs ago, my boss kept playing these metaphysical tapes in his car as we visited schools. After about 3 months I picked up a book entitled, The Science of Mind by Ernest Holmes and ever since then my life changed dramatically. It certainly played to the intelligent heart and knowing what you believed impacted the outcomes. So now I only do positive affirmations and know that everyone I meet, I meet with love, and wow have people responded differently and my life has been blessed. One's attitudes and beliefs shape our lives, our bodies and minds.
Thanks, Ellen.
What are some specific things that RCH did help you understand the importance of being prepared, holding true to your focus and talking candidly?
What are some specific things you do to help your students internalize these things?
Karen,
Thanks for this post. How do you do the things your mentor did for you for your students?
One of my best mentors was able to see the work I could do and gave me that chance to dive in and show them. Because of his positive attitude and belief in my skills it just made me excel even more.
My first mentor was RCH and he showed me the importance of being prepared, holding true to your focus, and talking as candidly as you can.
Thanks, Troy.
What was your biggest challenge when you started teaching? What are some of the specific things your mentor did to help you meet those challenges?
I was fortunate to have really good mentors early in my teaching career (early 90’s). They spent a tremendous amount of time working with me during the early stages of teaching to ensure I would develop. Too often many new instructors tend to get toss to the wolves without the benefit of any guidance.
The effect it has on me know is I’m a firm believer that a mentor is really a requirement to help guide the new instructor. The few months is key to the overall success.
The first person to become my mentor was my husband. He encouraged me to go to school and feel good about myself. I also had a boss that always told me I could do anything and how proud he was of what I accomplished and how much smarter I was in school than he was. It made my self esteem and self worth rise.
The most important thing she did was show confidence in me. She knew I could do the job and she gave me the direction that I needed.
Thank you, Judith.
Teaching is a very rewarding profession, as is nursing. What were some of the specific things that Ms. Jones did that lead you to accepting her as your mentor?
My mentor was Joann Jones, RN. She was the Director of Surgical Services where I was a circulator. She convinced me to become the Charge Nurse where we were working. She helped me to hone my management skills and education for this role. Becaue of her individualized mentoring, I went on to become the Administrator of an Ambulatory Surgery Center for over 12 years. During this time I obtained my MBA. Part of my job duties is to educate my employees with inservices. I found that I really enjoyed teaching and decided to move my career in that direction.
Trying to keep a positive attitude and looking for the good in people and situations rather than the negative. My mentors have always been fantastic at that. I also try to have a holistic and proactive approach rather than a reactive response.
Thanks, Jacki.
What are some things you do to try to bring what your mentor brought to you to your students?
Thanks, Linda. The best mentors usually require us to be accountable without making us feel like we cannot do something.
I agree with you Jacki. My biggest mentor in the past few years has been a person who didn't let me get by with something. She was my boss and if I did something wrong she let me know it but the way in which she did was just as you describe she was generally calm and balanced in her approach. Consequently, I learned more from those mistakes and tried not to make them again. I think if she had yelled or even raised her voice the final results would have not been as good for me. I try to remember that when talking to students. Sometimes we think what they are asking or wanting is trival or unimportant but then you must stop and think it is important to them.
Hello Dr. Pace!
The most memorable mentors of my life have been those human beings who were willing to give me respect without my having to earn it. I have learned the most from individuals who give unconditional, positive regard to all.
How and why, if I may ask, do you believe the old saying, "Respect is earned, not given", came to be?
Namaste,
Shelia
