What Do I See When I Look at You?

by Kelly Beischel PhD, RN, CNE

Has anyone ever told you that the first step in writing a manuscript is to know your audience? Well, it’s the same when writing blogs, newsletters and the like.

I’ve been coached to think of it as writing to one person. To see this person as if he or she was standing in front of me.

I want to share with you how I see you when I write.

Because I’m writing for you. I picture you in your classroom.

You’re dedicated to teaching and even more so to student learning. Asking students questions, expecting solid answers. Inspiring students to be better learners. Changing their perspectives.

I picture you with passionate curiosity, wondering how to deepen your student learning.

I’d like to ease the load with strategies to enhance your productivity.

I see you in your office working a lengthy number of hours preparing classes, grading papers, creating tests, and writing manuscripts. The number of hours you work are not for the faint of heart. You’re tired but fulfilled, knowing that you gave it your all this semester.

I admire your resilience. You don’t always get it right, your manuscripts are sometimes rejected and students occasionally respond negatively. There are even times when you want to toss in the towel. But instead, you get back into the ring and try again. That’s resilience and you have it in spades.

I hold a special place for you in my heart.

There are faculty fortunate to have the support they need.

They have mentors teaching them how to be lead a successful academic life. Though, you may not be so fortunate.

I see you sitting in your office, asking what you got yourself into.

Your to do list is long; your day is short. You want to excel at what you do and you can. You just need support.

I see you teaching clinical practicums to nursing students, novices and experts alike.

You’re preparing our next generation of nurses to deliver care to the most vulnerable of patients. What a great place to teach quality and safety concepts – my mind swirls with endless possibilities for you.

The semester is nearly over.

I envision you sitting at your desk with a silly grin on your face imagining summer with excited anticipation. You’re anticipating the vacations you’ll take, the planning you’ll do and the writing you’ll accomplish.

Now envision me giving you a high five for a job well done!

Great semester! Did I capture you?

Please comment below about how I see you or tell me what you want me to see.