Although we still have a paper to write, tonight we met for our last class in literary criticism. I spent half of the time doodling in my notebook, trying to figure out a way to rearrange my very small writing room in order to gain a fresh perspective for summer writing.But all the while I was listening to my professor and thinking about how much I'm going to miss her. She is THE most INTELLIGENT WOMAN I have EVER met!
In the beginning I dreaded taking a class from her. I was absolutely, 100% intimidated by her. My god, who wouldn't be?! But then I got to know her--and don't let my doodling fool you--she is the most challenging, passionate, and intellectually stimulating teacher I have ever had.
The only other woman I look up to and respect as much is my great-grandma who lived to be 105.
I am hardly a literary critic; nor would I even consider myself much of a scholar--but N. opened up doors that I never even knew existed. And listening to her talk tonight, and every night, has made me realize that there will NEVER be an end to learning.
I would have never guessed that she would end up playing such an important role in my life--but dang, I am really going to miss her.
4 comments:
My most inspiring college prof lives in my mind and continues to inspire me and bring quaking to my knees at times :) intimidating, inspiring, and all the other things that go along with such a talented mind... It is now well over 45 years since I took a class from him and yet his influence continues.
Jes,
That's a endorsement as strong as any teacher ever gets. It's a pleasure to read.
I feel the same way about her, by the way, though she has never (formally) been my teacher.
I'm very sad that I won't be able to take that class with her after hearing your praise!
I graduated a few years ago, and I desperately miss the intellectual challenge and inspiration of my great literature teachers. If you can, stay in touch with her!
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