Advice from a College Math Instructor (part 1)

This new idea for a post came from an encounter with a student today. I thought I would advise (rant) about general college behaviors along with math study tips.

Today's Topic: Special Favors

• Don't ask for extra credit or special favors in front of the rest of the class.
• If you ask for extra credit, extensions, answers to a test, or other special favors that make your life easier, then, when you receive a polite no, don't laugh and pretend you were just kidding.
• Don't ask for special favors multiple times per meeting and pretend you are kidding.
• Don't criticize the class or instructor for a mistake you made in regards to special favors, especially in front of other students.
• If you are always asking for special favors, then complain when it appears someone else got one (when they didn't), then you probably won't receive one in the future.

Teacher in the Crosswalk

Hit my teacher with my car.
Goal achieved: she flew quite far.
But of me she got the best-
When a proctor gave her test.

Quote

"I wouldn't want to get a concussion on the way to school."

"Neither would I - it's not conducive to learning."

I loathe... (part 8)

I loathe songs that are played over and over again on the radio.
I loathe a huge bag of candy containing no chocolate (such a waste).
I loathe clutter.

Didn't Get It

So I wanted to write a blog reporting whether or not I got the full time teaching job I'd applied for at one of the schools I am teaching part time. The process has been long, but has taught me a lot about the field.

I didn't get the job, but was told to apply next time there is an opening because they really liked me and my talent/knowledge.

Knowing me (which most of you do) you can expect that I've already come up with a list of "on the bright sides."

BRIGHT SIDES:

• I most likely won't have to teach 5 or more sections of DEVELOPMENTAL math next semester.
• I have the opportunity to get an even better suited position in the future.
• I met some nice people: peers I'd only emailed before this process.
• I re-acquainted myself with a friend.
• Other adjunct math teachers have talked to me more since finding out I'd made it past the first interview.

"Where's my hand?"

David was sleeping when I called him last night. He doesn't remember talking to me. What he does remember is what happened in the middle of the night...

Him: "Where's my hand?" - said in a PANIC.

Me: "What do you mean? It is right here." And I grab both his arms to show him his hands.

Him: "No that is your arm! Where is MY arm and hand?"

Me: "Right here!"

Him: "Oh I thought that was your arm." Almost instantly he went back to sleep.


I thought he had been dreaming. Apparently, his arm was asleep so he couldn't feel anything and the weight of his arm felt like it was coming from me.

I love... (part 13)

I love The Killers.
I love Mates of State.
I love Arcade Fire.