The Power of Supportive Teachers by Victoria

The Power of Supportive Teachers by Victoria - September 2023 Scholarship Essay

For me, high school was an unforgettable experience because of my involvement in the school band along with the strong support of my peers. However, it was also a period of struggle due to the lack of consistent support from some of my teachers and counselors. This taught me exactly how educators can impact their students' lives and the importance of a growth mindset within education.
My high school years were first marked by the support and friendship I found in my school's band. The band became a second family to me, a place where I felt accepted and valued. Through the highs and lows, we supported each other each step of the way through school, and the music program left me with a sense of purpose and belonging.
Even though my active participation in activities outside of academics greatly aided in my success, the difference between the support I received from my peers and that from some of my teachers and counselors during high school was alarming. At times, I felt lost academically and I struggled to find the guidance and encouragement I needed. It was discouraging to see teachers work or give attention to the same students who regularly received help instead of providing the assistance I and so many others needed. The lack of support in the classroom made it challenging to navigate through the complexities of high school life, especially during my freshmen and senior years. Having a teacher, mentor, or counselor who genuinely believes in your potential and ability to be successful is a game-changer. This idea is also proven by the Pygmalion effect, which states that heightened expectations will lead to improved performance. When teachers believe in their students' potential for success, they are more likely to provide the attention, assistance, and guidance needed to kickstart and sustain that success, which is why this theory holds true in education. Even though I made it through high school and graduated, I truly believe that I could have done much better and gone into college more prepared with guidance from my instructors, and I am certain there are many others with similar feelings. Teachers are more than just educators; they are mentors and guides who can shape their students' paths and I believe that my high school, like many others, could benefit from embracing this.