Some people fear their college professors; some hate their college professors, and some, like me, genuinely like their college professors. Mostly. Dr. “Mostly,” you know who you are. This semester I’ve been having some stumbling moments as I try to write a paper my heart isn’t invested in. It’s not the subject so much as the style of paper we’ve been asked to write that is chaffing my creative thoughts. Heaven knows nobody wants chapped thoughts, but I’ve got them.
I was asking for advice from a professor who is sensitive to my writing whims and he responded, via email, while enjoying a family vacation on the East Coast. Along with some very fundamental and helpful suggestions he ended with this—“…and finally, limit yourself to one of your zingers. One smart-ass remark in the conclusion. One, my friend!” I burst out laughing. It’s like he knows me or something. It was the best part of my day.
Oh, dearest Gail!! The idea of you limiting yourself to 1 smart ass comment is the best part of MY day. What a wonderful dilemma.
As one of your former Dr. Somebodies . . . .remember that it is YOUR education. It doesn’t belong to anyone but you, particularly NOT your professor. Good teachers are “guides on the side” not the “sage on the stage”. Our job is to support your learning, and YOUR task is to direct your learning.
Get going, dear heart. You ARE in charge!!
Dear Claudia,
Your wisdom is only equaled by your beauty. Thank you for the comment, the nudge, and the endless support. How many students are lucky enough to have a professor that becomes a treasured friend? (I’m raising my hand here.)
Love ya,
Gail