Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Managing Assumptions

Last week, I gave the general education presentation to some transfer students at orientation. My director put together the presentation, and I had given it once before at the beginning of June. After eight weeks of "frosh" (freshmen) orientation, this presentation seemed easier. The policies and procedures covered in the presentation are becoming more familiar to me as I settle into my new job.

One thing jumped out at me as I gave the presentation. We tell the transfer students to "manage their assumptions" since they are coming from another college or university. Things will be different at this university. I finally realized that I need to manage my assumptions after advising at another university for over five years. I incorrectly assumed that frosh orientation would be similar to my last job. As we go into the fall semester, this was a good thing for me to hear (again).

I did not realize that my presentation was being observed by some of my colleagues for a specific reason. At the end of last week, I was asked to teach an activity section for our freshmen seminar. I am a little overwhelmed but excited. I am preparing to teach my first class on August 31. I co-taught a freshmen seminar in fall 2010, but I now know to expect this to be a different experience. I am looking forward to working with the other instructors, a peer advisor, and twenty-five new students. Between working my full-time job, teaching a class, and having an active three year old, it will be a busy fall!

On another note, my craft supplies made a "guest appearance" on Scrapworthy Lives today.

3 comments:

Alison said...

It really does sound as though you are settling well into your new job..and that people are realising what you're capable of!
Alison xx

Sharis said...

Looks like a busy semester ahead, but that could be a good thing.

Stephanie Medley-Rath said...

Good luck with the fall semester and thanks for the photo for the post!