Over the course of my education, I have been placed in many classes. I can say with confidence, that the tone of the classroom and what students get out of the class, depends on the teacher. I have had many wonderful teachers who were willing to stay after school and help me with things I didn’t fully understand. They always lent their support and advice when needed. I could tell that these people genuinely loved their job and picked the right career path. On the other hand, I have had a few teachers who seemed like the only reason they were there was simply because of the schedule.
Teachers aren’t told enough how important their jobs are and how much of an impact they have on their students. Out of all the classes I have taken, and all the experience and knowledge I took away from them, I can proudly say I have experienced great teachers. Ones who changed my prospective on life, ideas, attitudes and the topic being taught. I feel proud because it is rare to come across one you connect with has that big of an impact. I can say that with confidence because after sixteen years, seven schools, and roughly fifty different teachers, I have only experienced a handful.
To the Professors who changed my perspective,
I can’t even begin to tell you how thankful I am for you. It’s a rare – indescribable feeling to be in a challenging class and effortlessly do well. You made the content we covered easy to understand, and did everything in your power to make sure we got the most out of it, without the choking or overwhelming feeling. After years of displeasing remarks and grades on my papers, I started to become discouraged with academics as a whole. My dreams were slowly diminishing. Just when I was about to lose hope, I was placed in your class. You showed me that all it took for a changed view was a simple shift of my lenses. Words of doubt and/or discouragement never slipped through your lips. When I didn’t completely understand or did an assignment wrong you were always there with explanation and took all the time needed for me to do better. After receiving those unpleasant remarks, you gave me words of encouragement. There aren’t enough ways to convey how much that meant to me. There aren’t many teachers who not only hear but also listen to what their students have to say, but you did. You took whatever comments you made and validated them with a thought out answer, one that would always benefit us.
A million thank yous wouldn’t do justice for what you did for me. I hope you know of the positive impacts you make on your students and how important of a role you play in their lives. There are many people who could take a thing or two away from your teaching style and personality. My only regret is that I didn’t take your class sooner. I am forever grateful for you.
- Your past student
