Focus Students (F.S.)

Both of my focus students were selected specifically because the identities that they display in social settings seem mismatched with their academic personas. These two focus students, who are both female and minorities in a predominantly White institution, present as socially adept members of their communities. The two of them appear to have secure friend groups both in class and outside of class and move through non-academic spaces with confidence. 

In class, however, they both can be withdrawn and are sometimes hesitant to engage with the learning community. Both F.S.'s need support in taking academic risks, and seeing themselves as people who have valuable insights to share with other learners.