Looking back on a long, and continuing, career as a student, one teacher stands out above the rest. Her help and guidance put me on the path toward academia, and then ultimately into the field of education. I was a Junior in college at the time, and I was eager to finish up my degree. I had been working superficially with one professor for a while; I had helped out in her laboratory, taken some classes with her, and had gone to her for academic advice a couple of times, but that was all about to change. I remember her asking me if I would like to go into the field with her for research over the summer. I was ecstatic! This is what my years of class work had been preparing for!
As the semester gradually came to a close, the funding that we were expecting fell through, and the trip into the field had been canceled. Needless to say, I was quite disappointed. This set back, however, was not going to stop me from getting into the field! I worked diligently with this professor to find a field opportunity that would be comparable to the experience I would have had with her. We finally found one. At this point I could not imagine this professor doing anything greater for me! She had been instrumental in helping me complete my course of study.
As the days sped on, and my date for departure approached rapidly, problems arose. The overseas office would not accept my credit transfer for this field experience. Devastated, and not knowing where to turn, I went back to my professor. After I told her what had happened, she stopped what she was doing and walked with me back to the overseas office. Once we arrive and sat down to talk with an advisor, my professor handled the situation reflecting her professionalism: She let me state my case, and instead of taking over the situation, she allowed me to take control. Of course she interjected her approval from time to time, but that was all.
She has done so much for me, as a professor and as a friend. She has taught me that taking a personal interest in your students is priceless. Such a small gesture could impact a student for years to come. I know it has for me.
-- Jennifer Sherman, Florida Atlantic University