College Professors and Their Unforgettable Students
As college professors, we often teach students who will carry the knowledge and lessons we impart with them for the rest of their lives. However, there are certain students who stand out for reasons beyond their academic performance, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. In this article, we will explore the experiences of a professor whose students taught him invaluable lessons, both academic and personal.
From Misunderstandings to Lifelong Lessons
One of my most memorable experiences as a college professor involved a Korean student named Peng Peng. His resemblance to the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un gave me a unique perspective, but the lasting impression I had of this student was not related to his appearance, but rather his persistent attempts to argue with my grading.
Peng Peng was the lowest scorer in my class, and it was not easy to penalize his wrong answers and give him a low grade. When I provided feedback on his mistakes, he would come to class and insist that he did not intend to make those errors and deserved full credit. I tried to explain the importance of learning from mistakes, but Peng Peng's perseverance was remarkable. His unwavering hope for compensation, despite my clear refusal, left a profound impression on me. Despite our differences, he continued to seek answers and showed a strong desire to improve, which is a lesson in itself.
Every Student Has a Story
Another aspect of teaching is the diverse range of personalities and characteristics that students bring to the classroom. I remember every student, not just for their grades, but for their unique qualities, such as their intelligence, mood, weaknesses, and humor. Just as they remember and love me, I too remember them and cherish every moment spent with them.
For instance, there was a student of fourth standard, a young boy who found it difficult to differentiate between the letters 'b' and 'd'. He would carefully think before writing them but still managed to perform well in exams. I encouraged him to practice at home in an effort to clear his confusion. The next day, he came to me, saying he only practiced 'b' and 'd' the day before but was still struggling. He asked me fearfully, 'Will I be a failure in my life if I do not clear this?' These words struck a chord, and I realized that perfection is not the goal for every student. I reassured him that everyone is imperfect, and there is no need to worry as much about these minor details.
Understanding the True Value of Terms
Despite my attempts to help him, I felt disappointed when he did not finish his assignment. However, his level of understanding and resiliency taught me a valuable lesson about success and failure. During the teaching assistant evaluation, I received an anonymous student comment that said, 'Peng Peng did not bathe.' I wondered who could it be, but realized it was a play on words and a reference to his academic struggles.
Another student who captured my attention was a lively and talkative student who often contributed to the class discussions. He was known for being a topper, but what I remember most about him is his ability to keep the class engaged and interested. His energy and enthusiasm made the learning process enjoyable and memorable.
These experiences remind me that as a teacher, I am not just imparting knowledge but also learning from my students. Their passion, resilience, and humor are crucial in shaping my own understanding of life and education.
Conclusion
The students we teach often teach us as much as we teach them. They bring new perspectives, insights, and challenges that shape our own personal growth as educators. In the end, it is not just the academic achievements but the character and spirit of our students that leave an everlasting impact.