I thought it was interesting how this course mentions the difference between being a friend to the students and a pal. Clearly, I agree that it is not appropriate to be a pal and break the teacher/student relationship, but I do feel that it is crucial to many students to feel understood and that is done by being a friend. When a student is struggling we can do so much to help them see that there is hope, but we can only show them there is hope if we understand their situation. I have had students who were not coming to class and not responding to our efforts to reach out to them. As soon as I was able to talk with them I was able to show them that I truly want to understand their unique situation and help them and they start coming and they start working. How do you try to connect with your students and do you find that your connection with them aids in keeping your students involved?