The Old Dog by Jennifer

The Old Dog by Jennifer - January 2015 Scholarship Essay

I just finished taking Biology 100. There were four "Old Ladies" that sat at the front of the classroom. They raised their hands and asked hundreds of questions. They were always the very last ones to finish up labs. They met before every class to discuss and compare finished assignments. All four of them finished the semester with "A's."

I was one of those "Old Ladies." I heard the heavy sighs from the back of the class when one of us would raise our hand with another question. It bothered me at first, but not after I got that first "A." What was most important to me, something that has stayed with me since class finished, is that our professor never once let us think we were taking too much class time asking questions. He always treated us with respect. He showed enthusiasm for our questions and ideas. He encouraged us to take those questions and ideas even farther.

I get to take three more of his classes. I am looking forward to it. His teaching style should be emulated by all professors. Showing respect, concern, encouragement and keeping a straight face when answering the "ba-jillionth" question are qualities I look for as a non-traditional student.