March 10, 2022
Humanizing Our Professors: Roshelle Amundson
English/Writing Foundations Department, Marinette Campus
A little-known secret around campus is that our professors were once students. Nervous, confused, and probably as hungry as we all are while sitting through lectures, here are their first experiences as professors and what tips they have to offer for students taking their courses.
Believe it or not, Professor Roshelle Amundson taught in multiple settings for about ten years, in addition to her teaching practicum, before becoming a college instructor. However, no amount of preparation calmed her nerves. She recalled feeling like an “imposter,” imperfect and afraid of losing credibility with her students for simple mistakes—a common feeling for new teachers. It wouldn’t be until she learned to be transparent and honest with her students about being imperfect that she began to truly feel she was in the right place. In fact, students were able to appreciate her more and open up about their own struggles when she did this, creating safe and encouraging environments for learning.
A helpful tip she mentioned for students is, “Don’t pay any attention to RateMyInstructor!” While it might sound silly, it’s great advice for any course. Don’t come to class with pre-determined expectations of how your instructors will perform. Make the judgement for yourself because sites like this one are often biased either to believe the instructor is really good or really bad at their job, and you’ll come to class with a faulty perspective of who they are. Understand that instructors are not out to “eat your face” because they seem a little intense. The truth is that those who have made it this far in life have a deep desire to help others understand what they’re passionate about—they want you to succeed! However, if you do ever find yourself struggling, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Voice your concerns because if you don’t speak up, they won’t know how they can do better. It’s your learning experience. Make it the best it can be.