Jim Coan - Teachers Make a Difference - Frau Dufford

The speaker reflects on influential figures, particularly Judy Dufford, a high school German teacher who played a pivotal role in his life. Despite being a struggling student from a working-class background, Frau Dufford engaged him in meaningful conversations, encouraging him to consider his future. She nominated him for a life-changing trip to China, which broadened his perspective and motivated him to pursue higher education. This journey led him to become a professor at the University of Virginia, highlighting the transformative power of mentorship and opportunity.

Who was the teacher that had a significant influence on the narrator during high school?

• Dr. Brown

• Mr. Smith

• Mrs. Johnson

• Judy Dufford

What was the narrator's attitude towards school during high school?

• Focused and diligent

• Excited and engaged

• Indifferent and troubled

• Highly motivated

How did Frau Dufford treat the narrator that made a difference?

• She gave them extra homework

• She punished them frequently

• She treated them with respect and seriousness

• She ignored them

What extraordinary action did Frau Dufford take to help the narrator?

• She wrote a book about them

• She nominated them for a delegation to China

• She arranged a scholarship for them

• She tutored them after school

What was the impact of the China delegation on the narrator?

• It made them dislike travel

• It had no impact

• It transformed their view of the world and themselves

• It was a negative experience

What did the narrator achieve academically after the influence of Frau Dufford?

• They pursued a career in sports

• They became a high school teacher

• They became a full professor

• They dropped out of school

Why did Frau Dufford nominate the narrator for the China delegation?

• She wanted to get rid of them

• She wanted to see China through their eyes

• She wanted them to fail

• She wanted to punish them