One of my students just told me a story about how he enrolled in a music course being taught by a renowned pianist. This student of mine, having been a huge fan and supporter of the pianist’s work, enthusiastically enrolled in this course.
However, this student went on to say that it was one of the major letdowns of his life! Not only was the pianist arrogant and unapproachable, he was incredibly lazy and uninspiring with his teaching.
Today, I’d like to share a word of caution with you if you are considering enrolling in a writing course being taught by a very skilled and successful writer:
The best writers don’t always make the best teachers.
Now don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying all successful writers are bad teachers. What I am saying is that writing and teaching are two completely different skill sets. Just because someone might have the bona fides to teach creative writing, doesn’t necessary mean the person can–or is willing to–share her knowledge in any kind of clear and meaningful way. Also, understand that her teaching probably takes time away from her writing, so more successful writers may even cut corners teaching to create more time for writing.
If possible, I suggest emailing, or (better yet!) visiting your intended faculty member’s office during office hours. Introduce yourself. It’s OK to admit your fandom. (Everyone’s a sucker for flattery, right?) Express your interest in her course. Ask a question or two designed to “feel out” the course.
If you receive no response by email, or a rude response in person, this could be a predictor of the quality of your interactions should you become a part of the course.
However, if all goes well with either of these attempts, you hopefully completed the first step toward establishing a fruitful student-professor relationship!
And when in doubt, you can always read other people’s experiences on Rate My Professors, too.
What do you think? Do you have an experience you’d like to share with us? If you do, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.
And, as always, use the force write your heart out!
Photo credit: Orange_Beard / Foter.com / CC BY
August 14, 2013
I definitely agree with you… Teaching/writing don’t go hand in hand! You’re so wise! Thank you for the heads-up advice!
August 14, 2013
Like the student I mentioned to begin the post, I learned this the hard way.
August 14, 2013
To Sir, With Love,
I couldn’t agree more with this post. Mentorship is often what can make or break a pupil. Choosing wisely with the upmost caution is a guarantee for success. I, however, was fortunate enough to have you as a teacher by chance without any choice of mine influencing it. I believe I speak for the vast majority at our school who had the privilege of being taught by you when I say you were and always will be the best writing teacher/mentor any student could ask for. I look on at your future students at your new school with both excitement and envy. The former because I know they are lucky and blessed to have you and the latter for the same reason! A toast to all the great teachers and mentors… A toast to you, Mr. Ryan Shiroma…
-Your Most Loyal Pupil,
Mel
P.S. Speaking of great mentors, you should check out that movie “To Sir, With Love.” It’s an oldie š
August 14, 2013
Thank you very much for all of the kind words, Mel. I will miss working with you and all of my other hardworking, dedicated students at West Coast University. I have no doubt that you will continue to accomplish wonderful things in your lifetime! Gold star!
August 14, 2013
GOLD STAR!!! Whoo hoo! I’ll keep the gold star lantern burning even in your absence! Gotta keep the legacy alive!
I’ll write my heart out! š