Dear Mr. Boardman,

I'll never forget it. I walked into your class the second day of school. It was September 7, 2017. I was scared by the title of the class itself, "College Reading." I found a seat which would become "my" seat for the next few weeks (before we moved classes to Fine Arts). You saw a new face arrive into the classroom and immediately walked up to me, introduced yourself, and shook my hand, "Kenneth Boardman, it's so great to meet you, what is your name." I replied energetically. While I didn't know anyone in the class and remained uncomfortable because of it, you played music to wake us up and prepare us to have fun. You made it a point to learn everyone's name and what town they come from.

As the course continued, you not only taught me, but demonstrated how you cared about my success both inside and outside the classroom. You taught with such spunk and energy. You made me want to learn. While we did read in your class, we had good class discussions, regarding the book Outliers, which discussed how to be successful, and you, you believe everyone in our class will be successful. On top of the readings, we participated in several fun activities. Your favorite, the grit test.

You genuinely cared about each and everyone of your students. When I came into your class every Tuesday and Thursday with you asking how history was, and I remained stressed, you took it upon yourself to help me. You lent me a book that broke down topics into short, manageable pieces to help me better comprehend the information. No teacher has ever done that for me.

I'll always keep your "Boardman Theories" in the back of my mind to assist me as I continue my education at Rider, and beyond in the workforce. Next time I catch myself multi-tasking, I'll remind myself, Mr. Boardman says "you can't multi-task. You can't focus your attention on more than one thing at a time. Next time I read an article for class, I will be sure to read the first and last paragraphs first, highlight the main idea, and make note of supporting details, just like you taught me. Next time I doubt myself, I'll think, Mr. Boardman told me I'm gritty and I have potential. Next time I am at a family gathering, I will play "Facts in Five-The Boardman way."

As our time together in class comes to a close, I will be sure to carry your advice with me and keep in touch with my favorite college professor, you.

Thank you for all you've done for me this semester. I greatly appreciate it.

-Victoria