Jaimes - Scenario 6

Scenario 6:

Tutee:   “I have never been able to write. This is hopeless.”

Oftentimes when a student comes to me and expresses these types of feelings I understand that they are frustrated. It is very easy to get frustrated when you just can’t “wrap your head” around things.  When a student becomes frustrated they frequently have a negative attitude toward the subject they are having trouble with. This is completely understandable. I can empathize with this because I have definitely “been there and done that”.  I would let the student know this, that way they wouldn’t feel alone and understand that it’s not just them that has difficulty with things. I have also always told my tutees that everyone has their weaknesses and strengths; with this being said, I would explain to them that it is the responsibility of the student to work on their weaknesses so they can reach their full potential in that subject. I would also clarify that when I say full potential, it doesn’t always mean getting the best grade. It means that the student has learned the material to the best of their abilities by dedicating their time to studying the material and putting forth the effort to learn it.

  

A great way to get the student in a better mindset is to encourage them. Not “sugar coat” coat things and fill them with false hope.  Just be honest and open.  I would let them know of my struggles and mention the things that I said above. I would empathize with them and let them know that I am here for them to help guide them. Usually, this gets the student in a better mood and they are more apt to open their minds.