Kinesiology 141, a required course for entrance to the major, attracts approximately 400 students annually in the fall and spring semesters. While I'm interested in research, I love teaching and I wanted to do something to make them more than just a number on a class list. It is strictly voluntary and provides an opportunity for us to get to know one another. One stipulation is that we will not talk about course content, but will discuss anything else that strikes them. Our discussions have covered a wide range.
Nothing is off limits except the course content.
We do that because it wouldn't be fair to those who couldn't make it because of other responsibilities. Students are selected alphabetically in groups of 35 to 40 for the weekly seminar, with 10 to 11 sessions scheduled during the semester. The students often are reluctant at first, but then usually open up and discuss a variety of topics. Many are new to the major or are in DUS and haven't made a decision on a major, so we often discuss career direction, options, and job opportunities. I call it a fireside chat without the fire.