As I noted here, before, I had a very bad day last Friday. I had a bad day for two main reasons.
The first reason was more typical emptyheadedness from the management here. But that sort of unpleasantness is a) par for the course, and b) easily forgotten — it's not hard to move on from that, whether because of habit or because it just isn't that big a deal.
The second reason had more sticking power, because it came from a student. Mostly, I think I have a pretty good rapport with my students, but sometimes I make mistakes, either in how I interact with them (too lenient, too firm), or in how I attempt to engage their attention. The problem last Friday falls under the former. I was obviously too hard on a student, and it had an impact on her. Unlike most students, though, E__ is good about expressing her feelings. She gave me the following note, which I transcribe verbatim, errors and all. I feel really badly about it all. She was (is) one of my favorite students, but now she's dropped out of L-Bridge. Was it because me? At least partly… here's the note.
To Jared
Hello? I'm E___. I wrote this letter because of some reason.
First, I can't see you on next semester. Then, you will not have like me, the rude student. I like this L-Bridge, but I've been in this for 3 years. So, I think I'll come in any, but next semester, I'll not come. Second, I've many mistake then every teacher said it is ok. But, in last last debate, I got mistake but you didn't say anything except you did a bad job. I suggest, I don't want that and every students will have stress, like me. So, please do not do that! It hurts me. Don't show this letter to other teacher. Thanks alot in this semester. Bye! – From E___.