At the beginning of my classes I have my students fill out a form called "Agreement for Myself". In this agreement they make note of some potential barriers, ways to overcome potential problems, etc, but the most important part of this agreement is why they chose to further their education. I also include: "Where would you like to see yourself in five (5) years?". I have been amazed at some of the answers. I make sure that both the student and I have a copy of this document so, if necessary, we can both refer back to it. I have… >>>

I find that making a connection outside of the classroom is just as important as inside. Students are in class for so few hours during the week and if I can connect with them "where they live" they feel that I am interested and care about them all of the time; not just during the class. I also instill in my students the philosophy that we are a team - myself, them, and their classmates. I constantly emphasize cooperation and helping each other. This is also included outside of the classroom by means of exchanging phone numbers and email addresses… >>>