Jeffrey Schillinger

Good point, Patti. I have found that a lack of confidence derails more students than does a lack of ability.

Patti, When I first startred in this business, I was told that I would know that my students trusted nme when they came to talk to me about things that I would rather they did not talk to me about. It sounds like you are in that place. Take it as a affirmation of what you do and how you carry yourself.

Interesting post, David. I also work for such an institution. I am able to find "situational mentors" fairly often when I need them.

I hope this works for you, Andrew. I have to close windows or I become distracted. I do the same with email.

Great post, Giovanni! I had a similar experience with a college professor I had for Greek History. What are some specific behaviors that let a student know that you are one who will listen?

Patti, You hit on a key point here. The phone calls have to be about helping the student and making them feel like you want them to be part of your learning community. Even though most career colleges expect faculty to contact absent students, sometimes the success of the contact is less effective, especiallly when the contacts become a "have to" so that the instructor can say they contacted the student instead of a "want to" because we truely are concerned.

Patti, What are some of the specific things you do to try to develop these HABEs in students who do not already have them?

Patti, Several faculty members have told me that they are uncomfortable dealing with many of the "out of classs' issues students bring to them. What advise would you give them?

Thamks for sharing this, Patti. Do you ever bring formaer students who are doing well back to campus to talk with current students? This can be very effective at helping current students stay motivated.

Thanks, Lisa. What are some specific things your mentors have done that have inspired you?