When I was about 12 years old, my dance teacher told me that there was nothing else for me to learn from her. She told me to go and take class downtown in Chicago from one of the notable schools so that I could continue to improve. At that moment, she became more than a teacher–she was a mentor, nurturing me and guiding me onward in my career.
I have mentored a few students of my own over time. Mentoring is more than taking an interest in a particular student in class. It involves a committment to their development, both personally and professionally. It means you go the extra mile and try to share your experience in a way that will help them grow. It is extremely satisfying and rewarding…
I never imagined that I would one day be the mentor. It’s funny how life works. I learned so much throughout my dancing years, and now it is my turn to pass it along to the next generation. It is the right thing to do…plus it feels good. I wrote an article on this for Dance Teacher Magazine that you can read on their Website. If you haven’t yet taken someone under your wing, give it a try. You’ll be glad you did.
Wow that is amazing. There are some pretty bad instructors out there who are too selfish to know what is best for the student. As an instructor now, I have realized what it will take for my kids to improve and if it is dancing under someone else’s instruction then it will have to happen.
Unfortunately, when I had to realize this on my own, my old instructor completely shunned me. I wish all teachers realized how to be mentors.
I’m sorry that you had that happen Katie. At least you aren’t following in your old instructor’s footsteps. 🙂