Today I got the grade for my second project in photography back. I worked hard on this project and I stressed for weeks about it only to find out that I got a D. I was obviously kind of discouraged at first but I know that I did my best on this project and the grading part is out of my control so I'm cool with it. But. If I didn't think he would fail me out of spite (not that it matters because it looks like I'm going to fail anyway) and it I wasn't so afraid of conflict and confrontation I would like to say a few things to him. I think this is what I would like to say:
Dear he who must not be named,
I have the same feelings about your teaching as you do about my (first ever attempt at film) photography. I wish someone would tell you that teaching at a University level isn't just about proving you are the all knowing authority on your subject. A teacher is successful when they foster a desire to learn and improve in their students. I get that feeling more from my boring food science class than from your class and I happen to love photography. Instead of inspiring and encouraging your students you pressure, embarrass, and discourage your students. I have no problem handling criticism, especially from my teachers and fellow students but you seem to have forgotten that you are teaching photo one... which implies that the people in the class have little to no experience with the subject, so maybe you should grade with that in mind.
Sincerely,
One of your "D" students
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