I was sitting in class when it dawned on me. Growing up, I don't think I ever realized the impact teachers have on their students. I mean, I remember loving some of my teachers but I never bothered to reflect on why. I'm in college now, and my mind is constantly flooded with new information. Yet I realize despite everything I'm learning pertaining to the subject, there is always a principle that can be found in the process as a direct result to how my Professor taught. It was then I was able to realize how much I've truly learned.
1. My college algebra professor taught me patience.
No, really. I was in Community College and my professor was friendly and foreign and to this day, the most patient person I know. She made us all feel smart, and even when we couldn't figure a problem out, she reminded us that things don't always happen EXACTLY when you want them to. Some things take time, and that has been a principle I still reflect on to this day. I also somehow enjoyed Math in the process, go figure.
2. My government professor taught me how to love school.
Well... not exactly like this. She never taught like my other teachers did. Despite the size of the class, she always used different methods of teaching to cater to the different ways of learning. I enjoyed coming this 7:50 a.m. class, and looked forward to the riveting discussion or field trip or "Around the World in 80 Days" activity we would participate in that day.
3. My history professor taught me that my story mattered.
He might as well have said these words because that's the attitude he emplified the whole semester. In teaching about American history, he always told my class that we were going to be history makers! He taught me that every part of my life matters, and how I will shape culture with how I chose to live.
4. My oral communication professor taught me that I have a voice.
Her name was "Luscious Linda," and she made me feel like a million bucks. She wasn't your typical teacher and I loved everything about her. She pushed me to share my stories and share them with confidence! Whether it was through a one-on-one conversational activity or a 15 minute speech, she encouraged me to truly speak about things that I enjoy because
5. My Bible professors taught me how much I didn't know.
LOL I'm not even kidding. It's one of the main reasons I chose the university I'm at, though. I wanted to be challenged in my faith. In the past year, through different theological classes, I've been able to develop my worldview and really set the foundation on why I believe what I believe. As a result, I am now further immersed than ever in the idea that I really do not know anything in the grand scheme of things.
6. My advisor taught me how to think practically.
The first time I walked into my advisor's office, I was such a mess. Eh, who am I kidding? I still go in there frantic sometimes. The thing I love about my Advisor is that no matter what I throw her way, she always keeps her cool and helps me think rationally through situations. She's the alpha male and knows all the important phone numbers by heart. When I need my head on straight, I just make a trip down to her office.
7. My professors who were pursuing a Masters degree on top of teaching taught me multi-tasking and determination.
And I thought my life was hard. I think it's so admirable when teachers go the extra mile and continue to better themselves. Even as students, it's easy to think that professors don't always "get" what it's like to do a million and one things, but it's through these guys in particular that we are able to see such amazing characteristics come into play.
8. My science professor(s) taught me how to appreciate the small things.
I think in science it's all about the small wins. At least for me, that's how it was. Whether it was realizing how a part of the body functioned or when I knew all the answers for a pop quiz in lab. I learned the importance of appreciating the things that seem small, because without those steps how can we advance?
9. My professors I wasn't so hot about taught me how to push myself.
Because that's honestly what happened. Even though I was miserable, and I didn't understand much, it caused me to think on a whole different level. I didn't necessarily love it, but I grew nonetheless.
10. My professors in my major continue to teach me everyday how to develop myself and become the best I can be.
They are truly my friends (no pun intended) and biggest cheerleaders!
I know that all professors aren't cookie cutter perfect. In fact, I can assure you most aren't. However, I do think we can learn a lot from each one. Take it upon yourself to look past face value in a class this semester. I can almost assure you won't be disappointed. After all, while we're in college, we might as well learn as much as we can!
