I'm excited!

Hi - congrats on your new position. I have taught undergrad students and loved every moment of it. The student population of my courses ranged from those who were "traditional aged" 18 - just out of HS to an 85 year old grandmother completing her life long dream of attaining a degree. To that end - I set the record straight in the beginnning that as adult learners -

* we respect one another's contribution be it based on life, cultural or educational experiences.

* adhere to the syllabus and are timely with assignments and arrivals.

* "I will not chase you" (my favorite line) - if you choose not to attend - you must be responsible for that action and contact me for assignments and notes. I recognize that as adults life has away of catching up to us and requires our attention unexpectedly (sick children, car isssues, personal illness, etc.) Make sure that the students know that you will adhere to the college policies related to excessive absence, behavior, etc.

Honestly, by approaching them as adults, and reinforcing that I was willing to work with students personally, I had wonderful and respectful working relationships with the students. I found the experience to be wonderful and rewarding. Good luck to you!

JLM