Sometimes in conversation with several of my colleagues, one of them will use a big word that I don't understand. The temptation I have is simply to nod and smile and hope that the context will make it clear what my friend is talking about. But I'm trying to change, to ask on the spot (at the risk of embarrassment) what the other person actually means. That little bit of communication has cleared up a lot of potential misunderstanding. I'm less and less embarrassed to ask about something when I don't understand. It's hard to admit I don't know something—do you understand the feeling?—but doing so allows others to help clarify their meaning.
Some of us think asking for assistance is an admission of weakness, but I disagree. It's a sign of self-confidence that we can ask others to help and not be threatened. One of the saddest days I've had took place some while ago. A student came up to me and confessed to not understanding anything that had gone on in class. What made me sad was the timing of this confession: five minutes before the final.
This semester, let me know early if you're facing difficulties, technical or academic or otherwise. Maybe you feel like you're stuck in a small space and can't get out. Perhaps together we can figure out how to confront those challenges. If you need assistance, such as academic counseling or some other service provided on campus, Butte College offers the Early Alert program which can connect you with needed campus services on a priority basis. Please communicate with me and together we can get you connected with the support you're looking for.
Copyright © Dan Barnett