Expert: Patricia Ireland-Williams - 3/19/2009

Question
I am going to school for education. I would like to know if it is a good idea to build a good friendship with students?

Answer
It is DEFINATELY important to build a good relationship with your students but in my experience, becoming their friend is not always a good thing.  

There are plenty of people in their peer group that can become their friends.  A student/teacher relationship is very different.  As their teacher, you should focus on building respect for each other, for you and your classroom values (how the classroom is managed, organized etc.). They also need to respect your knowledge and expertise in your teaching area.  You also must be able to motivate them to do their best for you in whatever you are teaching.

Friendships are quite different in that emotions often become involved and this is something that should be avoided.  After several years of teaching, you will likely maintain relationships with your previous students as a person they look up to.  After 35 years in the field, I am in contact with numerous of my former students but I would not necessarily call them my close friends.

Best wishes in your pursuit of becoming a teacher.

Patricia