It takes a great deal of effort to genuinely listen to students on a consistent basis, especially when nonverbal cues often communicate disinterest in their concerns. The ability to understand others is a prerequisite for being understood ourselves. It is hard to really listen to someone while simultaneously preparing a mental response. Even if you disagree, please don't make me wrong. The typical college campus is populated by human beings at varying developmental stages.
Mistakes are inevitable.
But it is important that the individual not be equated with their behavior. The authors suggest beginning sentences with 'I' and then completing them by describing how you currently feel. The other person can then either accept or reject what is being communicated without feeling that they are being judged. In most situations, statements about yourself do not tend to foster or maintain bad will. College exerts a tremendous influence on students in a number of ways.