Marianne Herr-Glaser,
Department of Communications,
Clemson University
[Sept. 17, 2013]–
Professors use various means to get acquainted with the students entering their classes each term. One example of a creative way to bridge the gap between perception and reality is what I do now.
On the first day of class, I ask students to pull out a piece of paper and take a “quiz” on who they think I am. It’s an opportunity for me to provide my credibility statement when I go over the answers and the students seem to think it is fun. It really is just a fun, cheesy way for me to walk through my credibility statement, begin to develop an inviting classroom atmosphere, and most importantly, a fluid way for me to introduce my faith.
The quiz questions provide some insight into my academic background, family life, career choices, and just some fun stuff. While I go over the answers, I use some PowerPoint slides as visual aids to illustrate each of the answers.
For example, when I tell them that I live in Braselton, GA, I use a picture of my family in front of our church. This is where I mention that if you can’t find me at school or at home with my family, then I am probably out doing something with my small group from church. I also take a moment to speak very sincerely to the class and tell them that I am a Christian. A Christian not only in my words but hopefully in my actions, and if they see anything different this semester to please hold me accountable.
At the close of my quiz review, the last slide is the webpage for my meettheprof.com profile. I tell them that if they want to know more about me as a person, then I would encourage them to check out this site and look me up.
That’s it.
I have to admit, I am completely overjoyed seeing there were so many hits for me last year at meettheprof.com !?! I wish I could tell you that I did something that just sealed the deal but… I really have no idea. Maybe someone posted something on one of their social media sites or students just want to know their professors better? Whatever the reason, the “meet the prof” profile has helped me connect with students and share who I am as a person and as one of their faculty.
I also now include a link to my meettheprof.com profile in my email signature block. In the future, I’ll probably send an opening email after the first day of class to all students, reminding them of what we covered the first day and again mentioning the site.
How exciting! I love being on Clemson’s campus teaching and interacting with students as I do my job–which I’m very passionate about. Meet The Prof has become a great tool for me.
(c) 2013 Marianne Herr-Glaser