Srinivas Mandavilli - Teachers Make a Difference

The speaker reflects on their experiences in both pathology and poetry education. They discuss the importance of mentorship and the space given by mentors to grow and learn. In pathology, mentors provided foundational knowledge and allowed for personal growth in diagnosis. In poetry, a teacher inspired a lifelong interest, and later workshops offered critical feedback, emphasizing the importance of revision and editing. Both fields highlight the value of learning through exploration and the guidance of skilled mentors.

What was a key aspect of the speaker's pathology training?

• Focusing solely on theory

• Leaving space for personal growth

• Following strict guidelines

• Memorizing diagnostic criteria

How did the poetry teacher make the lessons engaging for the students?

• By giving frequent tests

• By using modern poets

• By making the content relevant

• By focusing on grammar

What impact did the poetry teacher have on the speaker?

• Inspired them to become a teacher

• Encouraged them to pursue science

• Sparked an interest in writing

• Led them to study history

What did the speaker learn from poetry workshops later in life?

• The value of revision and editing

• How to write quickly

• The importance of memorization

• The significance of publishing

How did the speaker's mentors in poetry workshops help them grow?

• By focusing on technical skills only

• By offering constant praise

• By providing strict guidelines

• By giving space for personal development