Sunday, January 23, 2011

Fears with Transition

In class Tuesday we went over chapter 2 in the Peer Mentor Companion. It was all about helping students make the transition to college. Josh and Greg led the class and I thought they did an excellent job of it. One of my favorite activities was actually the opening go-around. I thought the question they had for us to answer was perfect. We were all supposed to say two of our greatest fears about college and then if they had changed or not from when we were freshmen. It put us all on the same level and was a good way to realize that we’re not alone in our fears. Many of us share the same fears and sometimes it may have been the case as to where it could have once been our fear but we overcame it. I think it’s a great question, especially for incoming freshman because then they know that they’re not alone and it’s alright to question things and not be certain about everything right away. Knowledge comes with experience and your fears change as you grow.

The Skittles activity Josh and Greg did was really good too. It was a really good discussion tool for the entire class with the different questions for each color. It was a great time of reflection for us and as past mentors in some of our cases. We could reflect and relate what we went through with our students and how we should react to that when the time comes again.

With Silas and Allie we did some role playing with potential questions/ statements that students may have. Some were more difficult than others to handle and answer. The time of reflection at the end of it was good though too. We all had a chance give our input and relate our past experiences with our students. It’s really neat all the different perspectives that come up from all of us. As the year goes by it will be a great tool to utilize.

3 comments:

  1. Yes the skittles activity was very effective especially with the different questions for different colors. It was also very nice to know that several students ahve the same fears that I do!

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  2. Yeah, I really liked the skittles activity also. The question at the beginning of class really had me thinking about my first semester here at Iowa State. Yeah my fears have changed a little bit but now having a handle on things, it just seems like a breeze.

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  3. I also liked the Skittles activity. I also blogged about it lol. It is true that fears can change as you get older. I wish I could remember what yours was...what I wish i could remember what mine was lol.

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