Reaching Lifelong Goals as a Nontraditional Student

Surfed into a great article on the Psychology Today site.   Written in the blog of “the Image Professor” by LisaMarie Luccioni.  The Top Ten Ways to Impress Your College Professor “Don’t bring an apple; bring your best academic self”.    This article is full of common sense items that I think most Non Traditional Students already practice.   Things like coming to class on time, turning off your cell phone, showing up for class on the first day…you know – Non Trad stuff!    This article is really worth taking the time to read, some of the points were not on the top of my list until now…   Item #1 should be of special note:

“1. Make your personalized contribution to the classroom. The best compliment I give any student occurs at quarter’s end when final exams are submitted. If you hear me say, “Lauren, your presence in my class made it better than it would have been without you,” know this: I was indeed impressed. Be THAT student.”

I sometimes forget that your contribution to a classroom means a great deal to your instructor.   I have been in a class where the only discussion on issues was between the teacher and the crew of nontraditional students, while everyone else just sat there…not contributing.  In a Community College level of classes, this interaction with your professor is probably easier than in a huge lecture hall on a University campus.     I try to connect in some way with all of my instructors, you never know when that letter of recommendation might be needed.    I really do hope you all take the time to read this special article.   I will keep it in mind throughout the rest of my college career.