Dr. Danielle Fernandez Dr. Stephan Caldes Faculty, Journalism & Public Relations Department
As the two speakers explain, first-generation college students can feel especially awkward and can experience feelings of “not belonging.” Dr. Stephen Caldes introduces the topic of “Invitational Education.” He explains that instructors can make small adjustments to how curriculum is delivered; adjustments that can create a more welcoming classroom community that really “invites” students to learn. Dr. Danielle Fernandez shares an activity she with which she begins her writing course. On the first day of class, she reads a heartfelt “Letter to My Students” about herself to “humanize” herself and help her students get comfortable. The students then write their own letters.