Sometimes I’m lucky enough to get a handwritten note from a student I’ve worked with at the end of a semester. It makes me feel so special! Who, me? Usually it’s a writing tutor who has worked for me for a few years, of course, or another student I’ve known longer than a single semester. It does take time to develop relationships. 

One way to develop lasting relationships with students, it seems, is to reach out to them and make them feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Handwritten notes can do just that. (And these days, who doesn’t love getting personal “snail mail”? Such a treat that it’s not a bill or campaign flyer!)

I’m not sure what came over me last fall, but for the first time I wrote a personal note to each of my First-Year Experience students. On the last day of class, I handed them out as the students left. They seemed to like it. And somehow it made me feel good too.  

As I wrapped up my Intro to Creative Nonfiction class today on Zoom, I felt such appreciation for my students. I wanted to tell each individually what stood out to me about them this semester. But it was too late, right? 

Wrong. I can still write them each a note. Sure, I could send an email, but now that I’ve written this blog post I’m going to have to handwrite them notes. And I’m looking forward to it. 

Who wants to join me?

P.S. It may be tricky to figure out addresses, as not everyone who is remote is “home,” but you can always reach out via email first.