Unlocking Success: The Vital Role of Passionate Teachers and Eager Learners in Higher Education

As a recent UCLA graduate, I’ve witnessed the unsettling rise of the anti-Israel movement on campus firsthand. It was hard to ignore the massive encampments blocking key areas, the chants promoting violence, and the push to remove “Zionists” from student government—essentially targeting Jewish students. These experiences led me to file a formal complaint with the university, highlighting a troubling trend.

This isn’t just a local issue; it reflects a broader crisis in American universities. One critical aspect of this crisis is the decline of mentorship. Many teachers seem hesitant to guide and inspire, while some students appear less eager to learn.

Mentorship has been emphasized by influential figures like Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. It resonates with the themes in Plato’s Symposium and the film Dead Poets Society. Each underscores a vital truth: true learning occurs in the connection between students and teachers.

A recent study from Gallup found that 45% of students believe they don’t have a mentor. This lack can lead to diminished academic performance and lower engagement levels. Students thrive when they have someone to guide them.

In today’s world, where social media dominates, mentorship can take on new forms. Online platforms allow for virtual connections, giving students access to mentors beyond their immediate surroundings. This adaptability offers hope for revitalizing the mentor-student relationship.

By reevaluating how we foster these connections, we can enrich educational experiences and combat the harmful trends that threaten campus unity and understanding. It’s time to prioritize mentorship so that all students feel supported and heard.

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