i had an instructor who always told me how talented i was and to always believe in myself. I never thought i could actually go to college and make something of myself, but i did and now i teach!
Thanks, Paula.
This is a really important point. I have met teachers who try to "break students down" by making the first part of the class very tough. Their plan is to then bulid them up, but too oftern students drop before this point.
Setting students up for early success is far more effective.
My mentor told me once that "No one could take this away from me but me and that no one could stop me but me". I have that into the class room to encourage the students to not give up and to reach for their goals.
Some of the things that I learned was to keep things simple in the beginning. Not to overwhelm students or make them feel it is impossible to learn. By breaking it down into smaller steps they can realize and achieve their goals.
Thank you, Pamela.
What are some things you learned from your mentors that you put into practice to help position yourself as a mentor for your students?
Thanks, Eva.
It is interesting how frequently parents and grandparents are mentioned as mentors.
What are some things your grandmother did for you that you can do for your students?
I would have loved to be in Mr. Rodriguez's class, Steven.
What are some specific things you do for your students that he did for his?
I have been fortunate in my life to have had several mentors. First my grandmother who always pushed me to do better, she was a positive influence in my life and a great study partner. She had little ways to help you remember things that were giving you a hard time. I had a wonderful 6th grade teacher that was very strict but she made me want to please her. So, I would try very hard to get good grades from her as I wanted her praise that she did not give out freely. Finally, I would say my college chemistry professor who made chemistry understandable and fun. I always thought how fortunate I was to have had him as my professor. I have always wanted to help my students in the same manner. Break it down so they can understand it then move forward to the tougher things. Build a foundation first as he did.
My grandmother is one of my greatest mentor who believes in quality of education,excellence and high achievement. I strive to be the best I can in the field that I'm in and be a good role model to students.
I had an instructor by the name of Mr. Rodriguez, who taught elctrical and engine performance classes. He was comical in his delivery of material and open, honest and straightforward with his students. Having attended a good bit of "standardized college courses" before his class, I saw his methods as a breath of fresh air. He had the ability to enthrall students and hold their attention for the entire 6 hour class. I was always fascinated with his delivery method and his ability to uplift students. When I became an educator, I found myself modeling a good deal of my style after Mr. Rodriguez.....
Interesting post, David.
I also work for such an institution. I am able to find "situational mentors" fairly often when I need them.
If you have the benefit of working at an institution with a strong corporate culture that is student-centered, the institution itself can act as a mentor. While there is no “one person†I can identify as an individual mentor, I feel that many of my core values come from the daily operations that are around me. I also would like to think I have learned “a little something†from each one of the people on the team where I work. A "Student Centered" approach is key.
Great post, Giovanni!
I had a similar experience with a college professor I had for Greek History.
What are some specific behaviors that let a student know that you are one who will listen?
One of the most influential Mentor's I have had was A Professor I Had during my Bacelor's Degree. He and I met, Monday thru Thursday in his office from 3:00 to 3:15 sometimes longer.
He would open the window, light a cigarette, pull out a bottle of Cognac, and we would discuss the days learning both on campus, nationally and internationally.
I found him utterly amazing, enlightening, and truly "like family" as I would speak to him about everything, and he too would speak openly.
He instilled in me the power of listening!! It is definitely a different world than 18 years ago, but the Ability to listen and engage students to say "I am here" is sometimes all a student needs to know....
Simplified but effective, as some student have no one to acknowledge their struggles AND accomplishments!!!!
Giovanni Guiseppe Antonio Sealey
The mentors I've had have always been honest, understanding and accepting. However, they never fail to tell me if I did something wrong and the worst thing they can do is tell me they are disappointed. As a teacher, I try to gain the respect of my students, I accept them for their faults but let them know when I am disappointed. Out of respect, students naturally try to be better or work on improving. I find it easier to run a class when the instructor has the respect and admiration for the teacher.
Thanks, Lisa.
What are some specific things your mentors have done that have inspired you?
I try to fine new mentors when I take on a new challenge or role. Currently, I have a training and an education mentor. They have been very instrumental in helping me apply my transferable skils from other industries.
Having someone as a mentor is fortunate and when that mentor changes your life in a way that influences your decisions for the path of your life, they are that much more special. I remember one person in particular that I thought did not pay attention to my work and in one moment boosted my confidence level to make me believe I could achieve anything. Because of one compliment I decided to change my entire career path to include becoming an instructor.
Shauna,
Unfortunately, there is no good way to know if those who posted to the forums will go back in and respond to your posts. The best thing you can do is to look for the dates of the posts and reply to the most recent ones.
Thank you Jeffrey, is there a way to determine who is still actively involved in the course? I do not know how to respond to my peers as most of the posts that I have clicked on are from the beginning of the year. Any ideas?
