Making connections through role model sharing activity

By Dominique Serpico
College of Education
Long Island University, C. W. Post
February, 2011

Thursday’s class activity was more special then any other we have done. I felt such a strong connection with what I was saying and I felt this class was more than just a learning experience. The name of the activity was called “Role Model” and each one of the students had to either bring in their actually role model to class or bring in a photo. Everyone brought in a photo except one student, which was nice, my role models could not make it because of the short notice.

Anyways, my role models I presented were my mom, dad, brother and boyfriend. While I was speaking my heart was pounding which is ironic because I never get nervous when presenting/ public speaking. I think because I have such a connection to these people I was much more emotional. I started crying because this activity really made me appreciate everyone I have in my life. Also listening to other people’s stories was very interesting and humbling because it showed many people have different role models for all different reasons.

This activity showed the diversity in people and how other people inspire them. There is no “set” model for motivation or a hero; different things spark different interests. I hope in the future I am able to be a role model for my students. I want to impact their lives positively and give them something to look forward to come to class. This, I know, is going to be a great challenge, but if I work hard and love what I do I will be on the right track