Those That Leave An Impression

by Vig


A teacher that definitely has impacted the lives of so many, many people! Randy Pausch, may you rest in peace!



Have you had a teacher who years later you still think about what and how they taught? The impact they had on you, stays with you? I had a professor in university who left such an impression. He taught two of several History courses I took. He wasn’t liked by everyone – he was truly a macho man and a bit of a dude. I was majoring in Women’s Studies (History was my minor) and I didn’t always agree with him – his manly man attitude slipped through sometimes. I did, however, respect him. He was the same age as me and had gone back to school after having been in the work force for a while – just as I had. He understood that it was exciting but also a little overwhelming to go back to school when most of the students were many years younger. He was the most accessible professor I ever had - his office hours were extensive, he answered all his e-mails and phone calls immediately, he was willing to sit and listen to a stressed out student, and offered great suggestions when one was stuck on an assignment. He helped me get in to a class that I couldn’t get into, which I so appreciated as I needed it to graduate. He was really there for his students. He was a great teacher - inside and outside of the classroom.

As I continued on to a second degree in Education and then on to a teaching job, I thought about him and the way he taught. I incorporated some of the techniques he used for adult learners and I tried to be as accessible and as there for my students as he was. I often thought I should contact him and tell him of the impact he had made. I imagine college and university professors teach so many students who just disappear into their own lives, that profs don’t necessarily ever know the continuing effect they have had. One day about two months ago, I saw him going into a store that I was coming out of. I was going to run after him and talk to him, and then decided I would write him a letter. I went straight home and did that. I told him of the lasting impression he had made. I heard back from him within a half hour of sending that letter out by e-mail. He was so gracious and appreciative that I had written and I was really glad that I had.

Yesterday, I opened the local paper, which I hardly ever buy and it opened immediately to the obituaries. And there was his picture and a write-up. He had died suddenly last weekend at 49 years old. Even though I really didn’t know him, I was very sad. And then I was extremely happy that I had written that letter when I did.

Now I am trying to think of other teachers I should write to say thank you to while I still have the chance. Have you had a teacher (elementary, high school, college, etc.) that years later you remember fondly and that he or she continues to have a positive impact on you? If you were to write a letter to that teacher, would there be anything in particular that you would want to say?