The Most Memorable Day One Introductions of Professors
From terrifying warnings to inspiring promises, first-day introductions by professors can leave a lasting impression on students. Here are three distinctive examples that stood out, backed by the stories of those involved.
1. The Warning by the Engineering Lab Course Instructor
In a classroom where expectations are high, some professors use the first day to set a stern tone. For instance, an Engineering Lab Course instructor, an enigmatic figure to many, delivered a striking message right from the start, leaving an indelible mark on both the students' minds and reputations.
“I will ruin your life if you don't perform well in this course. Ask your seniors if you want…”
This instructor, whose identity has been kept anonymous for legal reasons and out of respect for the individual, used intimidating language to emphasize the importance of the course. The fact that he asked seniors about their opinions adds a layer of fear, suggesting that the previous students' experiences were worse than the warning itself.
2. The US History Professor's Promise
While some instructors use fear, others employ a different force to motivate their students. An anonymous US history teacher, known for his wisdom and passion, made an intriguing promise on the first day of class. He famously declared:
“I won't remember any of you after graduation.”
Although the remark seemed discouraging, it had a silver lining. In hindsight, the students realized that the professor might have said this to urge them to work harder and impress him enough to be remembered. This motivational technique not only personally motivated the students but also sparked a positive relationship between the teacher and the students.
3. The Young and Rebellious Math and English Teacher
For a change, let's talk about an enthusiastic and young teacher who joined a school at a young age and left an unforgettable impact on his students. This teacher, who was 25 years old when he started teaching in grade 7 and 8, brought a fresh breeze to the classroom, filling it with excitement and energy.
On the first day, he made immediate introductions with an unconventional approach, showing his own handwriting prowess with a clumsy chalk-writing. He then engaged a student, questioning what trigonometry was, a subject typically studied in 10th grade. The young teacher's directness and commitment to teaching beyond textbooks were evident. However, his expectations for the school were harsh, and his frustration was clearly articulated within his brief tenure at the institution.
“I expected the school to be lazy, arrogant, and unwilling to teach children beyond their textbooks. All this in one day.”
Moreover, the teacher’s name could not be recalled for the entire year, even though he left the following academic year due to a clash with a student who refused to pass. Nevertheless, despite the negative impression, the teacher continued to be in touch with his students weekly, indicating a lasting impact on their lives.
Conclusion
The first day of a course can set the tone for an entire academic year. These stories from students highlight how impactful a professor's introduction can be. Whether through intimidation, inspiration, or a mix of both, the right first impression can inspire students to excel and forge lasting relationships with their teachers.
Remember, how you introduce yourself as a teacher can shape the mindset of your students. It is important to approach the first day with a mix of clarity, enthusiasm, and genuine care. After all, making a good first impression can lead to numerous academic and personal successes in the future.