I could argue that I have had two great mentors during my college years (one as at Bachelor's and one at Master's level). My mentor at my Bachelor's level was so helpful in helping me complete my education that I continue to keep in contact with her even though it has been 10 years since I graduated. As for my Master's level, I knew of the professor's history even before I applied to the school and he was a great help in helping me complete my thesis and graduate. I mention them in my discussion with my students in the hope that they also understand the importance of a quality education and how us/them can help each other grow.
Im new to teaching so I feel that I have many mentors. Im lucky that I have people around that can address my concerns and give guidance. The most recent example would be one of my mentors telling me its ok to take charge of the class schedule and arrange it so it flows more comfortable for me. I know it sounds simple but just knowing its ok made me feel more confident. I know I still have a lot to learn but having close mentors in my life will help out a ton.
Dennis,
Walking the talk is very important. Teachers must live the values and perform the behaviors expected of students.
Jeffrey Schillinger
I keep in mind that I am a mentor to my students and always keep a professional demeanor and remind them that classroom behaviors carry over and set the tone for career professionalism.
Carol,
Thanks for this post. It sounds like you are positioning yourself to be an effective mentor.
Jeffrey Schillinger
My mentors allowed me to try and not feel I was being judged if I wasn't perfect.
I would work with student massage therapists and take them on volunteer events. This gave the students a way to break out of any bubble they may have. Speaking to strangers, working on strangers. Sometimes there were questions, but at the end of an event they felt more confident about their decision of coming into the field of massage
Dennis,
Thank you for this post. What are one or two specific behaviors you employ to emulate your mentor as to have the same impact on your students that she had upon you?
Jeffrey Schillinger
Linh,
Thank you for this post. You are describing a very powerful psychological impact known as the Pygmalion Effect. A teacher who truely believes a student will succeeed will unconsciously act in a way that leads the student to adopting the same success belief. The opposite is also true. A teacher who does not believe in a student will unconsciusly communicate the non-belief to students who will eventually internalize that belief.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Angela,
What are one or two specific things your memnto did that left suh a lasting impression? How has she impacted the way you engage students?
Jeffrey Schillinger
I had an instructor/advisor who was such a great mentor/role model. she was always in control of the class, knew when to change teaching styles and keep us engaged. her classes were difficult but she made you want to try hard yo succeed. i try to do the same with my students.
I have one mentor who truly stands out for me. The greatest thing that affects me to this day is when I hear her voice in my head. It makes me strive to be the best. Conversely, I try to give encouragement and advice that will stick in my students' heads.
When I was in school, one of my instructors told me that I have a "knack" for doing what I was learning. She continuousl encouraged me and reinforced the fact that I was good at what I was doing. It really helped me to realize that I have the potential to succeed in my career eventhough I had no idea I wanted to follow that certain career path.
As a child my mentor was my grandmother. She always had time for hugs and smiles. She read stories to me, taught me to be kind to others, and reminded me that there are always consequences for my actions. She taught me about a loving and just God, and that I should live my life in a way that is pleasing to him.
When I was a student, 3 of my instructors became my mentors. They encouraged me, showed they cared for me, and quickly let me know if I was headed in the wrong direction. I learned so much more than course content. I learned to be a patient advocate, and show care and concern to everyone I came into contact with during my daily hospital routine.
Maria Luisa,
I always smile when someone references a parent as their most influential mentor. My father was mine.
Jeffrey Schillinger
My mentor was my father. His teachings always linger in my mind. He said " Education is a wealth that you gain in your lifetime that can not be stolen from you.You will always carry this to your grave."
Great post Jeffery, you were very lucky to have a mentor like that
Yes! I am indeed very fortunate to have her in my life. In fact yesterday, she came down from Fresno and we had a nice dinner together with our old friends.
Emeline,
It sounds like you were very fortunate to have her in your life.
Jeffrey Schillinger
When I started my teaching career in nursing, I had considered one mentor and she was my Director in Nursing. She has been a great mentor to me because, she believes in me and thought me how to be a very efficient instructor. Not only that she would send me to a faculty seminars to develop my skills and knowledge in teaching as well as to enhance my networking ability.Through her mentoring I became a successful instructor and obtained my MSN through her encouragement.Eventough she is not my Director anymore I would still keep in touch with her to get some advice if problem comes my way.
Paula,
Thank you for this post. What are some of the ways you bring her traits to your classroom?
Jeffrey Schillinger
