I also do attend most graduation celebrations, art shows, or any other college event where instructors and students communicate outside the classroom environment. It is so rewarding to talk an to observe successful examples (students) and to hear encouraging words from my students. That alone is a great motivator to do my best in every class I teach!

I introduce myself to new students by explaining my experience as a design professional and as an experienced instructor; stating my high expectations from my students' performance and presenting my "friendly" and approachable personality - either inside or outside the classroom situation. I gain respect from my students immediatelly after announcing these qualities and stating my high standards of evaluation.

One way I like to start a class with a new group of students is to ask them why they chose this particular field/career - in my case, Interior Design.

I am also interested in the understanding of lack of interest, time management skills, etc... versus learning disability problems. How do instructors deal with situations like that?