Role Model Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on role model.

Role Model Essay – There are many people in the world who blindly follow anyone. Also, they admire and love that person no matter what he does. A role model is a person who inspires you to be like him.

Moreover, a role model is the person you love and want to be like him. Besides this, the role model can be anyone from a celebrity to a politician to your family member.

Role Model Essay

My Role Model

The missile man of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam is my role model. He is my role model not because he has achieved great things in life and become the president of India. He is my role model because he dedicated his entire life to the country and its people especially school children.

His Achievement

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam worked his entire life and achieved many great things in life. But several of his bigger achievements are the testing of Atomic bombs at Pokhran, development of the missile Agni and Prithvi, and becoming the president of India . But there is one more thing which is of great importance that is after his retirement from the presidential post he started teaching because it was his passion.

how to be a role model student essay

He always says that this young generation is the future of the country so guide them on the right path and they lead India to greatness.

His Personal Life

Dr. Abdul Kalam was so dedicated to his work that he usually sleeps late at night and wakes up early in the morning. Also, he never misused his power as a president of India. Besides, all this his family (brother and sisters) was also a very humble person who earn their living by doing work and they live simple lives.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Qualities of a Role Model

There are certain qualities of a good role model which make him/her a great man/women. These qualities include a demonstration of confidence and leadership , communication with everyone, being unique, showing respect and concern for others, treating everyone equally, willingness to admit mistakes, and maintaining the same character inside or outside the job. If a person possesses these qualities then he/she can be an ideal role model.

How to be a Role Model for Others?

Being a role model to someone is not an easy task especially if you focus on being a role model. The thing about being a role model is that you only do the right thing and people starts to follow. Also, you do not have to achieve something bigger just follow your heart and the above-mentioned qualities and be patient and you will be a role model one day.

My Other Role Model

Apart from Dr. Abdul Kalam, I have other role models in my life that belong to different fields and different profession. The persons are Ratan Tata, Bill Gates, Will Smith, Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev, Kalpana Chawla , Albert Einstein , B.R. Ambedkar, my father, and my mother.

{ “@context”: “https://schema.org”, “@type”: “FAQPage”, “mainEntity”: [{ “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “Can a person have more than one role model?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “Yes, it is not mandatory for anyone to have only one role model. You role model can be different persons, different field, and different professions.” } }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “Whom we can call a good role model?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”:”The person who confident, and helping, who communicates with everyone, respect others, treat everyone equally, influence other, accept his/her mistakes, and maintain a balanced character with everyone is the ideal role model for everyone.”} }] }

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

tutor

  • Travelling Essay
  • Picnic Essay
  • Our Country Essay
  • My Parents Essay
  • Essay on Favourite Personality
  • Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
  • Essay on Knowledge is Power
  • Essay on Gurpurab
  • Essay on My Favourite Season
  • Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

Google Play

Become a Writer Today

Essays About Role Models: Top 5 Examples and 7 Prompts

Check our guide, including top examples and prompts on essays about role models to write a high-quality piece about your idol and motivator.

How do you label someone a “role model”? Do you look for exemplary qualities like high intelligence, good leadership skills, and confidence? Role models are critical in personality development and life. For example, research proves that adolescents with positive role models, primarily those they know personally, do better academically and have more courage and self-respect. 

A role model is someone who excels in their field of expertise, inspires you to be a better person, and motivates you to follow an excellent path. They influence your life decisions and encourage you to become a lifelong learner. Who individuals decide to be their role models vary. Although most pick their parents , others also choose prominent people like celebrities, politicians, or singers. 

If you want to start writing about your role model, here are five sample essays to inspire you:

1. Best Role Model in Life by Prasanna

2. my role model: essay about my father by anonymous on gradesfixer.com, 3. word essay on true role models by pragati ghosh, 4. the role model qualities of martin luther king junior: leadership, courage, and self-discipline by anonymous on studymoose.com, 5. my mother: my inspiration and my role model by ankita yadav, 1. why should i have a role model, 2. my role models, 3. what is a role model, 4. disney characters and role models, 5. celebrities and singers as role models, 6. characteristics of a good role model, 7. how do role models affect young people.

“But for me, a role model is someone who motivates me and influences me to be a good human and positive person in life, who gives me a supporting hand to walk and run to achieve my dreams and goals. Role model is not someone who is full of ego, attitude or full of selfishness.”

Prasanna introduces her role model A.R. Rahman as someone who stimulates her desire to be an excellent musician. She mentions how vital it is to look for a role model in the field that you’re interested in. For her, it’s music. Rahman stirs up her passion for learning guitar and reaching the same achievements he had.

She believes anyone can be someone’s role model as long as they are a good person. Prasanna adds that a good role model must help you reach your dreams. She also shares her wish to meet her role model to thank him personally.

Are you interested in music? Check out these 10 essays about music .

“He is the one I always admire in my life. When I have children, I want to be similar to my father to do for my kids how he takes care of me.”

The essay shows the excellent characteristic of the author’s role model, their father. They describe him as a knowledgeable person who always encourages them to be strong in every situation and supports their goals in life. Further, the writer mentions that their father earns respect and admiration from others because of his hard work in becoming a successful businessman and a reputable human being. 

“A role model is somebody who has influenced us in our lives and whom we try to imitate and learn as we are aspired by them.”

Ghosh’s essay acknowledges that in today’s era, a person’s character, style, body language, virtues, deeds, and actions influence what type of role model they will be for others. She notes that an actual role model has self-confidence and good communication skills, shares similar thoughts with those they inspire, knows how to get credit, and does things with good intentions. She concludes her essay by advising the readers to choose their role models wisely.

“… He was a civil right activist and is one of the reasons why African Americans have rights.”

This essay expounds on Martin Luther King Jr .’s qualities that the author admires. These characteristics pushed the writer to choose him as their most significant role model. The piece recounts how Luther King Jr.’s leadership skills in fighting for equal rights and courage in speaking in front of police officers inspired the writer to be as brave as the activist and Baptist minister. The author also includes that despite being busy, Luther King Jr. finished his work on time because of self-discipline.

“She is a mother, a pilot, a driver, a cook, a good person, all at the same time. I not only want to be a pilot like her but want to copy her overall personality.”

In Yadav’s essay, she discusses how her mother became her role model. Aside from being a hard worker, she points out how she religiously follows schedules to be timely with her firm self-discipline. She believes her mother isn’t only the next Master Chef but also someone with a high sense of fashion. She’s a busy person with style. Yadav’s role model is with her at home – a mother, a mentor, and a perfect friend with a fantastic personality.

7 Writing Prompts for Essays About Role Models

Are you ready to write an essay about your role model? If you don’t have a role model or you’re having trouble coming up with a topic to start your essay writing, feel free to use the prompts below:

Most people, especially students, look for a role model to motivate them to find the right career path. At the same time, this path must also let them focus on goals, develop skills, and build character. Use this prompt to discuss your reasons why you want to have or have a role model. Then, introduce your role model by sharing their characteristics and what makes them special. You might also be interested in these essays about critical thinking.

Essays about role models: My role models

People have more than one role model. For this prompt, list your heroes and why you consider them as such. Then, pick the top ones and add their lessons’ impact on your life. Finally, you can include some of their inspirational quotes and explain why these sayings resonate with you.

Define what role models are all about and link relevant research or statistics that prove their importance. Then, talk about your understanding of being a role model and what qualities most look for in their role models today. 

Disney characters, especially princesses, are what young girls want to be. Share your stance on the debate of whether it’s okay for kids to use a fictional character as their role model or not. Affix your reasons why. Make your essay more convincing by adding examples, especially if you disagree with the idea that imaginary characters are worth being idolized.

Many look up to different celebrities and singers and consider them their role models. Some take it to the extreme and follow exactly what their idols do. Unfortunately, many become obsessed and follow even the wrong things, thinking they will gather the same fame and status as their idols. They also forget to live their own unique life. First, say something about youngsters worshipping popular artists. Then, add how people can select more positive and influential models to adore.

Discuss the typical characteristics people associate when they think of a “role model.” Then, give examples of these ideal individuals and share your preferences when favoring a role model.

Role models should motivate and inspire the youth to reach their goals and live as good people. Open discourse about the benefits of having a positive role model and how they can help change the unhealthy behaviors of today’s youth. Make your piece more compelling by adding the adverse effects of having a negative role model. 

Excellent grammar and punctuation are crucial to ensuring a good grade in your essay. See our guide to grammar and punctuation  to know more.

For help with your essay, check our round-up of best essay writing apps .

how to be a role model student essay

Maria Caballero is a freelance writer who has been writing since high school. She believes that to be a writer doesn't only refer to excellent syntax and semantics but also knowing how to weave words together to communicate to any reader effectively.

View all posts

83 Role Model Topics & Examples

If you wish to explore the qualities of a person you admire or talk about a celebrity, check these role model essay examples and original topics prepared by our team .

🤫 Secrets of Powerful Role Model Essays

🏆 best role model topics & essay examples, 📌 most interesting role models to write about, 👍 good role model topics for research, ❓ role model questions.

How can one define a role model? Who are the role models in today’s society? Role model essays serve the purpose of answering these questions. These assignments can help students to understand the meaning of role models better.

It is not hard to write a good role model essay, but you should know some secrets of making your paper powerful. Before we discuss some useful tips, you can select a problem for your research. Here are some essay topics and titles we can suggest:

  • The significance of parents as role models
  • The role of a teacher in society / Teachers as role models
  • The significance of a role-model leadership
  • What qualities do positive and negative role models have?
  • The role of the mother in a family (or a role model essay on parents in general)
  • How can negative role models affect children?
  • Celebrities have a moral responsibility to be good role models

Remember that you can also ask your professor to provide role model essay examples, if possible. Once you have selected a topic for your paper, you can start working on the essay. Here are some secrets of creating a powerful essay:

Think of the issue you want to discuss (you can select one from our examples) and do preliminary research on it. Although the topic of a role model may not seem hard, it is best to learn as much about it as you can.

Ask your professors about the sources you can use. In general, scholarly sources and peer-reviewed articles are the most important sources of information.

Develop a role model essay outline. Your paper should be well-organized to keep the reader’s interest. Make separate sections for the most significant arguments and remember to include an introductory paragraph and a conclusion.

Your introduction should present the problem you are discussing. Include a thesis statement at the end of the paragraph. A thesis can look like this:

  • Celebrities should be aware of their responsibility to be positive role models.
  • Define a role model. You can look up the definition in dictionaries and discuss your opinion on it. Discuss examples of positive and negative role models.
  • Discuss the qualities that make a person a role model. Should someone be smart to become a role model? Is kindness important? Do academic achievements make someone a role model? Make your paper engaging by discussing these debatable issues.
  • Support your arguments with evidence from your preliminary research. It will make your opinions look reliable. At the same time, do not rely on outside sources solely. Your essay should incorporate a unique perspective on role models and existing knowledge on the issue.
  • When working on an argumentative essay, include a refutation paragraph and discuss an alternative viewpoint on the issue. You should prove that your opinion is more reliable.
  • A role model essay conclusion should include all of your arguments and the main points of the paper.
  • Make sure that you use correct grammar and sentence structures. Check it several times to make sure that there are no mistakes in it. Pay attention to the spelling of words, too. If you are not sure that the grammar is correct, ask your peers to look through the paper for you.

Do not forget that we also have some free paper samples that will provide you with ideas for your essay!

  • Celebrities as Good Role Models In the conclusion, it was affirmed that celebrities’ accomplishments are easily identifiable to the public, as is the case with Angelina and Oprah, and this makes them good role models.
  • Role Model: Nelson Mandela Through the African National Congress party, Mandela was determined to undergo any form of suffering for the sake of the South Africans blacks who were facing a lot of suffering at the hand of apartheid.
  • Willy Loman, a Poor Role Model to His Two Sons Biff and Happy The main theme in the play is sustained in the play with the sons of Willy attaining their personality from their father.
  • Oprah Winfrey as Role Model The young Oprah was raised on a farm by her grandmother, and she maintains that the care her grandmother gave her early on probably saved her life.
  • Role Model as a Communicator My role model as a public communicator is very intelligent and ethical when presenting his speech to the public; he sticks to a single topic throughout.
  • Father as a Male Role Model During the days when schooling was considered to be accessible only to the children of the opulent, those who were not privileged enough to go to school, remained at home and helped their parents in […]
  • Positive Role Model in “A Doll’s House” by Henrik Ibsen To sum up, A Doll’s House presents the harsh life of the mother and wife, Nora, who is trapped with her husband with no choices and goals.
  • Ernie Davis as a Football Role Model He was an exceptional player born ahead of his time, as he stood out on the football field as the first African American to win the Heisman trophy in 1961, and to be chosen for […]
  • The Role Model ‘Central Woman’ in the Literature The other side of her personality is the merciful woman. What seems to be motivating the grandmother is her role and responsibility as a grandmother.
  • Gloria Steinem: A Role Model for Millions of Women However, for the majority of women, the situation changed considerably after the initiation of the suffrage movement in the 19th century, which found its reflection in the women’s rights movement of the 20th and 21st […]
  • Education and Leadership Role Modeling Generally, the article is of great significance to education, for it provides a guideline on what leadership trainers should emphasize in their endeavors of ensuring that education builds all round and sound mind leaders, who […]
  • Significance of a Male Role Model for Forming Tomas and Gabe’s Personal It is possible to pay attention to Tomas and Gabe’s visions of masculinity referring to the ideas developed by Tomas in relation to the question, to the opinion which is characteristic for Gabe, and to […]
  • Parents as Failed Role Models: A Doll’s House and Fight Club The drinking culture of parents revealed in the story of the Fight Club underscores the elements that increase children’s exposure to alcohol and drug taking.
  • Nutrition and Excellent Role Model
  • Prophet Muhammad as Role Model for Religious Teachers
  • The Misconception of a Role Model and the Relation to an Athlete
  • The Importance Of A Role Model In The Adventures Of Huckberry Finn By Mark Twain
  • Religion Is A Role Model For Majority Of People
  • Selena Gomez as a Positive Role Model
  • Role Model Worthy For The Field Of Social Work
  • Towards a Holistic Innovation Policy: Can the Swedish National Innovation Council Serve as a Role Model
  • The Barbie Doll’s Role Model For Children
  • The Role Model Qualities Shown by the Finchs’s Maid in To Kill a Mocking
  • Tupac as a Role Model
  • Strategy Development to Launch a New Product! Launching Of iPhone As a Role Model
  • Raising Awareness of My Own Voice Through My Vocal Role Model and Non-Model
  • Taylor Swift: My Role Model
  • Who Is the Role Model for Young Women? Pride and Prejudice and Bj’s Diary
  • True Grit Is Not A Good Role Model For Young Women Today
  • The Life and Work of Jane Goodall, a Scientist and Role Model
  • Women Rhetoricians’ Role Model and Pan Chao
  • The Value of a Role Model in the Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
  • Parents Need To Be A Role Model For Teenagers
  • Princess Diana as a Role Model and People’s Princess
  • The Role Of Models Of A Role Model
  • The Story of an Influential Role Model, George Washington
  • The Loss of a Role Model in In Red Sky At Morning by Richard Bradford
  • The Constitution of India is a Role Model for The World
  • The Importance of the Father as a Role Model
  • Professional Athletes Should Be Role Model to Kindergartners in Modern Society
  • The Best Role Model Of The Worst People
  • A Description of Eleanor Roosevelt as a Good Role Model
  • Why I Chose Martin Luther King as My Role Model
  • Tennyson’s Ulysses as a Victorian Role Model
  • The Possibility of the United States to Become the World Moral, Economic and Political Role Model
  • White Teeth: The Problem of Lacking a Role Model
  • Willy Lohan, A Poor Role Model To His Two Sons Biff And Happy
  • Positive Role Model in the Children and Young Peoples Workforce
  • What Makes A Modern Role Model
  • What Makes A Role Model Like A Good Outlook
  • The Importance of Having a Good Role Model
  • Teacher Role Model and Students’ Physical Activity
  • Walt Disney as a Role Model
  • What Is a Role Model?
  • How Do Role Models Help in Forming Identity?
  • Are Celebrities Good Role Models?
  • What Makes a Good Role Model?
  • Why Do Celebrities Become Role Models?
  • How to Become a Role Model in Your Home?
  • Are Athletes Good Role Models?
  • Who Should Be a Role Model?
  • Do We Need Adults as Role Models?
  • How to Be a Good Role Model?
  • Why Are Celebrities Bad Role Models?
  • What Is Better: Being A Leader Or Role Model?
  • What Makes a Role Model?
  • How Do Role Models Influence Our Lives?
  • Who Is the Best Role Model?
  • Why Is It Important to Be a Positive Role Model?
  • How Do Positive Role Models Affect One’s Behavior?
  • Do Role Models Matter?
  • Can You Be Your Role Model?
  • What Are the Qualities of a Role Model?
  • How Do Role Models Affect You Emotionally?
  • Is It Okay to Not Have a Role Model?
  • Why Do Adults Need Role Models?
  • Who Are Role Models in Today’s Society?
  • How Do Role Models Affect Employees’ Performance?
  • Why Parents Are the Best Role Models?
  • What Are the Three Important Traits of a Good Role Model?
  • Is It Important for Everyone to Have a Role Model?
  • How Many Types of Role Models Are There?
  • In What Ways Are Role Models Important for Leaders?
  • Chicago (A-D)
  • Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2023, November 9). 83 Role Model Topics & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/role-model-essay-examples/

"83 Role Model Topics & Examples." IvyPanda , 9 Nov. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/role-model-essay-examples/.

IvyPanda . (2023) '83 Role Model Topics & Examples'. 9 November.

IvyPanda . 2023. "83 Role Model Topics & Examples." November 9, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/role-model-essay-examples/.

1. IvyPanda . "83 Role Model Topics & Examples." November 9, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/role-model-essay-examples/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "83 Role Model Topics & Examples." November 9, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/role-model-essay-examples/.

  • Gender Roles Paper Topics
  • Parenting Research Topics
  • Attachment Theory Essay Topics
  • Parent Essay Ideas
  • Friendship Essay Ideas
  • Conflict Resolution Essay Topics
  • Family Relationships Research Ideas
  • Cultural Identity Research Topics
  • My Hero Titles
  • Relationship Research Ideas
  • Personal Ethics Titles
  • My Best Friend Titles
  • Self-Concept Questions
  • Moral Development Essay Topics
  • Personal Growth Research Ideas

Smart Classroom Management

How To Be A Role Model For Your Students (And Not An Internet Troll)

Smart Classroom Management: How To Be A Role Model For Your Students (And Not An Internet Troll)

Who you are and how you carry yourself has a powerful impact on student behavior.

More than most teachers realize.

It’s not just about using the right classroom management strategies. It’s about whether and to the degree your students respect you and look up to you—and thus want to please you.

Role models are in short supply in this day and age.

So if you can step forward and offer a living and breathing portrait that inspires who they’d like to become, it will result in real behavioral change.

What follows are eight things you can do right now to be the role model your students are looking for.

If you’re leaving petty complaints or mean comments on blogs or social media, or if you gossip and moan with your colleagues, then you’re going to find negativity wherever you look.

Especially in your students, which they can recognize in you from a mile away and want no part of.

In order to begin seeing the best in them and who they can become, and in order for them to begin looking up to you, you must stop searching for reasons to be offended.

Instead, be part of the solution.

Focus on how you can be better for others instead of undermining them with your negative attitude. Live who you aspire to be in this moment by changing your thinking, and you’ll be worth admiring.

Do what you say.

If you say you’re going to follow through on your classroom management plan and you don’t do it, then your students won’t trust you.

You’ll be just another adult who has let them down.

You’ll be just another teacher who fails to protect their right to learn and enjoy school without worry over being bothered, bullied, and interrupted.

Their opinion of you, privately, will be among the dust on the classroom floor until you start doing what you promised. Consistency in word and deed is rare, but it will make you stick out like a flower among thorns.

It will make you someone your students will hold in the highest regard.

Keep your cool.

Taking the misbehavior of a child personally shows immaturity, no matter your age, and a lack of emotional control. It also opens the floodgates of disrespect and rude behavior.

When students know they can push your buttons and get under your skin they’ll exploit it for all it’s worth.

Handling misbehavior with grace, even kindness, on the other hand—while still following through—stands out to students. It’s remarkable, admirable, and deeply appreciated.

It’s also far more effective in curbing unwanted behavior, causing true remorse and the desire not to make the same mistakes again.

Furthermore, how you handle adversity, frustration, bad luck, etc. in front of your students will be how they handle it in front of you.

Focus on them.

Blah, blah, blah, people love to talk about themselves, even teachers in front of students. Instead of citing your degrees or organizations you belong to or years of experience or how you put yourself through college, focus on them.

While in class, it’s not about you.

It’s not about your politics. It’s not about your wants and needs. It’s not about the difficulties in your life, your future goals, or your stressful morning. Be a pro and keep them to yourself.

Put them behind lock and key the moment you pull into the parking lot.

Besides, getting away from you and looking outward at the world around you is healthy. It will make you happier and more appreciative of what you have, which will show and glow in front of your students.

It will cause them to begin doing the same. In time, your class will become selfless, altruistic, and kind to classmates who are struggling or different than themselves.

Be positive.

Have you ever heard the expression “your thoughts are showing?” Negative thoughts about your students—about anything, actually—will always bubble to the surface.

It’s something you can’t hide. It’s glaringly obvious to people around you in your voice, body language, and tension you bring to the classroom.

A positive thought life on the other hand will result in a calm, positive demeanor, which is contagious. It will spread from you to every student in your classroom. The best thing is that it is nearly instantaneous.

You can turn the energy around in your classroom by breathing full and easy, standing up straight and confident, smiling, and refusing to indulge in negative thinking.

See the best in your students and their best is what they’ll give you.

Be professional.

Although it’s important to have fun with your students, to tell stories, and even be silly, there is a line that must never be crossed. Be a professional in all your interactions with students and staff, including the way you speak and dress.

They’re watching it all.

They notice how you treat others. They notice if you play favorites and the subtle way in which you smile at some but not others. They notice when you’re late or you check your phone or you monotone through a lesson.

Students are far more observant and influenced by what they see than most teachers realize. Much more so than what you say. Classroom management, after all, is about action. It’s about integrity and leadership.

It’s about no excuses and learning the principles and strategies that actually work in today’s classrooms and then putting them into practice.

Be prepared.

Teachers who hem and haw, dovetail off topic, and talk a lot carry little weight with students, who tune them out. In fact, they hardly notice their existence.

Do you ever feel inconsequential? Do you feel like you have to repeat yourself and raise your voice to be heard? This, along with inconsistency, is why.

Thus, when it’s time to step in front of your students, be ready. Visualize your day and know what your objective is for every lesson and every scintilla of instruction. Then speak succinctly and clearly.

Model and define your expectations explicitly.

Be efficient. Don’t waste their time. Tell it like it is, provide great instruction, and then move on. Say what you need to say to get them working. Most teachers would benefit by cutting their amount of talking by one-third.

This alone will greatly improve listening, work habits, and interest in you and your lessons.

Having struggles in your personal life? So are we all. Covid got you down? Welcome to the club. Put it behind you in the few hours you’re with your students and show them how to behave when things are tough.

Pull your shoulders back, look your students in the eye, and say what you mean. Be the same, consistent YOU during all seasons. Be the steady hand that guides the ship .

Be the smile, kindness, grace, and confident visage they can count on every day.

Through thick and thin. Hold yourself to a high standard, believe in your ability, and love the amazing blessing it is to work with students.

Leader or Troll

They are watching. And what you do and say and the way you carry yourself matters. It makes a big difference in their behavior, satisfaction of school, and respect for you.

It’s one reason why some teachers have an “it” factor, that secret something that causes students to want to behave and succeed in their presence.

The truth is, it’s easy pickings.

There are so few role models in this day and age that students will bend over backward to be around and please the real thing. It makes building rapport effortless and gives your consequences leverage to curb any misbehavior.

If you believe that there isn’t an approach to teaching and classroom management that can deliver your dream class year after year no matter where you teach, you are wrong.

All of our strategies here at SCM are proven to work—and are still being proven every day—in the most difficult schools and classrooms imaginable. Not just by me (Yes, I still teach at an urban public school), but by hundreds of thousands of teachers around the globe.

By principals who have transformed their schools.

If you have questions about why we recommend certain strategies, then spend time in our archive or pick up one of our books . Do your due diligence. Learn and try them out for yourself before casting stones.

When you dig into the details you’ll find that what we offer—the combination of principles and strategies and the way they’re delivered—is unique.

As mentioned many times before, we welcome and appreciate all comments, even those that disagree. But I want to restate very clearly that we will not approve anything meanspirited.

Be better than that.

And remember that when you leave an email address on any website, your students and employer can look these up. They last forever. There are a number of educational leaders who should know better that leave snarky and petty comments on this blog.

They’re lucky we don’t publish them.

If you dislike Smart Classroom Management and our success, go to any other site or social media platform and shout it to the world. Call me a fraud or out of touch or anything you like. But please don’t come into our living room here at SCM and expect to get a voice for your hostility.

Perhaps consider an alternative approach and swallow your pride. Take responsibility and stop making excuses for why your classroom, school, or organization is failing and go study our methods.

Go be part of the solution. Go be a role model for your students, teachers, and community who need a leader and true expert to follow.

If you haven’t done so already, please join us. It’s free! Click here and begin receiving classroom management articles like this one in your email box every week.

What to read next:

  • 3 Powerful And Unique Ways To Model
  • How To Not Get Annoyed When Your Students Misbehave
  • How To Not Quit Teaching
  • How To Make Teaching (And Learning) Online Easier…
  • How To Capture And Hold Your Students' Attention On Zoom

29 thoughts on “How To Be A Role Model For Your Students (And Not An Internet Troll)”

This was very informative. I am always looking for ways to improve myself and my teaching skills. There were some pointers that I already knew then there were some I never knew or thought about. Thank you so much.

Hi I truly enjoy your articles. I share them with my colleagues and administrators. I have learned a lot and have been reminded of things forgotten. I wanted to say I like the way you politely called out the negative, haters in this article. I enjoy the way you write. You cover a lot of material, concisely.

You people are amazing. You hit the nail on the head every. Single. Time.

Yes, Debbie – I agree 100%. I just read the article and discussed each point with my 15 year old son (who also happens to be one of my students this year). The process merited a great discussion and my own renewed commitment to be this kind of example. Thanks, Michael, for all you do!

I love your methods and blog. It has changed my teaching life! Thank you so much for your wisdom, expertise, and all you do!

Another great post Michael, these are all spot on. One question in the Focus on Them section. We are encouraged (to the point of expectation) to talk about what college we went to, our experience there and our degrees. We post our colleges in our rooms and what we wanted to be when we grew up, then facilitate regular conversations about it. This is supposed to (in elementary school) inspire our students to go to college. How do we incorporate this and not focus on ourselves?

Elementary students don’t need to be inspired to go to college. They are 11 years old and younger! I understand your school sadly forces you to do this, but it is frankly a waste of time. Inspire your students to be the best people they can be, to persevere through challenges, to develop strong character. In doing so, you will prepare them to go to college (if they choose to) far better than talking about your experience in college. Also, college is not necessarily the best path for everyone. A good living can be made from going to a trade school or starting a business.

I don’t think there’s anything wrong at all with telling them about some of your college experiences, but to shove it down their throats all the time is useless. Spend more time learning about your students and their passions instead!

Thank you for this. I work as an ESL teacher in Korea and it’s nearly impossible to find another teacher like me who isn’t negative and complaining all the time. This is a great encouragement and reminder to keep working hard for my students. Thank you

Thank you for your own role modelling. You are my inspiration and motivational speaker 🙂 I read your blog and it helps me find a new perspective or refresher on an area of teaching. It helps keep me thinking and behaving positively and I really appreciate that! I always have a great take away and often use “it” in my parenting too! Thank you!

I second this! Except I think of Michael as an experienced “Sgt. Linsin” reminding and inspiring his troops how to get out there and make a success of things the same way he has–it’s great! I like how he’s not afraid to speak the truth firmly but kindly.

Once again this year, my new and difficult classes have turned around for the better, and it’s largely because of SCM!

I’m a former medical sales professional-turned-stay at home mom- turned substitute teacher. I read every blog, have one of your books and try to implement things you suggest. And you know what? They work! I have high job satisfaction and my students like and respect me (I think lol). Thank you for sharing your wisdom and experience. It’s changed my life and I hope it has a ripple effect.

I struggled at playing music for years until I came across a teacher that helped me understand the guitar framework. I had a lightbulb moment, and I’ve been hooked on playing ever since. I’m glad you have this site and also referenced Rick Morris, who I’ve also learned a lot from in just a few days. I’m looking forward to my next year of teaching and using the teaching framework that you and Rick obviously understand, based on the consistent success you both have had.

p.s. With about 8 days left in school, I tried your techniques as a bus monitor…finally. I laid out all the rules in a lighthearted, engaging way. I also described that they get a warning if they break a rule (like a second chance) and a 10 minute recess detention if they break two rules. Then I observed like a hawk. The students have gone from needing reminders to keep feet out of the aisle (et cetera) constantly, to maintaining all the rules faithfully the whole ride. I only need to give a warning to a few individual students, typically. I also feel like the kids respect and appreciate me. Thanks, man. I appreciate your advice.

If I get a book, which one should I start with??

The Classroom Management Secret

Well said, as always!

Mr. Linsin, I read you posts weekly, and your book, The Classroom Management Secret, was required reading before teaching at my last school, a homeschool coop. My current school, a public, classical charter school, also encourages subscribing to your weekly posts. I consistently love your posts.

While many of your suggestions are common sense, I find the reminders help me to gain perspective as I reflect on my classroom and plan my approach. Your insights are clearly grounded in your experience and offer wisdom that is needed and easy to employ. Thank you for sharing your practical advice weekly. It’s a great help to me. I appreciate you! Blessings, Lisa Campbell

Yes Michael! This article has me all pumped up! I know I can be a much more consistent leader in my classroom than I have been. Thank you for laying it all out like this.

Dear Michael, I’m retiring this year after 38 years of teaching. It has been an awesome experience! After so many years in the classroom, I have learned that students watch what we do and listen to everything we say. I have found that successful students, struggling students, hard to reach students and even seemingly dis-connected students will always respond to honesty, courtesy and respect. This is really what every human being wants. When we meet this need for our students, we can begin to teach. It’s all about establishing an honest relationship. We, as teachers have the responsibility to demonstrate this in our interactions with students, both in and out of the classroom. The words you have shared in this blog are among the best you have written so far because they are so true! Thank you for sharing your wisdom!

I love these SCM and I believe they’ve helped me become a better teacher, even though I’m not near where I need to be. I struggle with consistency, and every year I just hope I’ve gotten better than the year before. I also struggle with kids (high schoolers) talking when I’m teaching. If you know what I’m most likely doing wrong, I’m all ears! And thank you for these emails. I truly get a lot out of them.

Fantastic. I couldn’t agree more. It is important that we as educators carry ourselves in a mature manner. I see so many teachers gossiping in the hallway, or complaining and murmuring about something or another~ and this is a complete turn off to me. I can only imagine what the students think.

I really appreciate the SCM team and I know they’ve helped me become a better teacher, even though I’m not near where I need to be for my students sake. I struggle with consistency, and every year I just hope I’ve gotten better than the year before. I also struggle with kids (high school) talking when I’m teaching. Thanks once again for the wisdom and care in all you publish.

Smart classroom management has made me a better and happier teacher. I love the kids but was so inconsistent. The last two years have been a dream because I have had the support of smart classroom management. I don’t get it right everyday, but I clear the decks and start again. The kids don’t even blink when they get a warning. They understand. They get up and go to time out before I even tell them they have a second warning. I have other teachers sending their kids out of their rooms and sometimes into my classroom. The kids look so rejected. I don’t lecture them or ask them why they are there. I make them feel welcome and get them to do whatever we are doing and they behave so beautifully. On the days I get it really wrong, I feel like I need help, but I just think about what Michael would say to me and get on with it. Thank you Michael!

You guys rock! Because of you guys I have seen a change in my life and classroom! thank you!

Great advice as always thank you so much.

Dear Michael Linsin,

I have been looking for advice on classroom management for more than 20 years. Nothing I tried seemed to really work for me. It wouldn’t fit with my longing for being real and respectful to my students. The SCM approach is the answer to all my problems! (Thank Google for knowing what I am looking for 😅!) I started over with my (your) classroom management plan, promising to my first graders, I would protect their right to learn and enjoy school, no matter what, just six weeks ago. The result is mind blowing! I still make lots of mistakes of course. But I leave my classroom each afternoon smiling. And I come back each morning full of new energy and positive this is going to be another great day 🤩! Thank you for writing down what you learned by observing and helping me – and thousands of other teachers – becoming the role models they want to be for their students. I am reading The Happy Teacher Habits right now and am eagerly waiting for your next blog each week. This text about being a role model spoke straight to my heart. So I needed to write to you and say thank you right away. Thank you very much!

If you ever should be in need of translation into German, (especially if you should plan on coming to Austria) you can contact me. I have worked on translating non-fiction and have translated at talks and seminars before.

Thank you so much for your work. I makes me love teaching even more!

Valentine Wimmer Salzburg, Austria http://www.vs-taxham.com

Your advice is always great and puts me in a great mindset! Thank you!

By the grace of God, I found your blog before I began my first year of teaching in my late 50’s. I knew it was the perfect fit for my personality. I have done my best to adhere to your principles for the last three years. It is truly an effective management policy, and has made me “one of the best teachers” (not my words) at our private school. The students do respect me and do their best because of that. Thank you for sharing all of this knowledge. It is the foundation of a successful classroom! I tell other teachers about it all of the time.

Hmmm…sorry about my navigational inabilities..I think I commented in the wrong spot…but the gist of my comment was that this article inspired me to be okay with asking the hard questions…..especially asking myself…the ultimate non listener. Having my own child….being his First Teacher….has refined me as a leader. It is exhausting work. That I survived those middle school years…and he is a productive citizen, smart and kind…..Thankful I Am!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Privacy Policy

Home — Essay Samples — Life — Hero — Role Models

one px

Essays on Role Models

Barbie as a multifaceted role model: more than a doll, my hero speeches: an exploration of the importance of role models, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

Role Models, Accessibility, and Empowerment Through Sports

The influence and importance of role models in the lives of people, who is your role model: my father's influence on my life, leadership, helpfulness, and dedication in role models, let us write you an essay from scratch.

  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Taylor Swift is My Role Model

The importance of peers and role models for adolescents, bo jackson: an american hero and legend in sports, emma watson as my role model, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

My Role Model: Selena Gomez

Why celebrities are bad role models , parents should not rely on athletes as role models, prophet muhammad as a role model for me, my role model - tyler joseph, the way andrew carnegie's wealth made him a national hero, why my role model is my mother, the people i consider to be my heroes, teen leader follow jesus as role model, my role model at work, how disney’s princesses are bad role models, how media portrays sport personalities and how it influences their image, my role model: john lennon, roles and responsibilities of managers, the bem sex-role inventory, facilitating and team group dynamics reflection disc, key reasons for andrew carnegie's success, noam chomsky – my role model, does a role model have an impact on a person's life, steve harvey: my role model.

A role model is a person whose behaviour, example, or success is or can be emulated by others, especially by younger people.

Relevant topics

  • Helping Others
  • Someone Who Inspires Me
  • Influential Person

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Bibliography

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

  • Instructions Followed To The Letter
  • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
  • Unique And Plagiarism Free

how to be a role model student essay

  • Admission Essay
  • Statement of Purpose Editing
  • Personal Statement Editing
  • Recommendation Letter
  • Motivation Letter
  • Cover Letter
  • Supplemental Essay
  • Letter of Continued Interest
  • Scholarship Essay
  • Role Model Essay
  • Our Editors
  • College Admission Essay Examples
  • College Cover Letter Examples
  • College Personal Statement Examples
  • Graduate Personal Statement Examples
  • Graduate Statement of Purpose Examples
  • MBA Essay Examples
  • MBA Personal Statement Examples
  • MBA Resume Examples
  • MBA Recommendation Letter Examples
  • Medical School Personal Statement Examples
  • Medical School Recommendation Letter Examples
  • Pricing Plans
  • Public Health
  • Dissertation
  • Research Paper
  • Thesis Editing
  • Academic Editing
  • Motivation letter
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Personal Statement
  • Statement of Purpose

My Role Model Essay: A Few Ways to Elaborate on The Subject

EssayEdge > Blog > My Role Model Essay: A Few Ways to Elaborate on The Subject

You might be surprised at how much your answer to this question can say about you. The role model you choose for your role model essay is not nearly as important as your description of that person and the way you relate this back to yourself. Here are some principles to keep in mind when writing this essay.

  • Choose someone with whom you have had a meaningful relationship. Who is your role model? Don’t pick a more important but distant figure. No one will be impressed if you choose, for example, the CEO of your company but have nothing to say about him beyond listing the credentials in his company profile. Note: There are some questions that allow you to identify a “hero,” and others that ask you to describe an ideal manager. In those cases you should alter your choice accordingly, but the below principles still apply.
  • Express thoughtful admiration.  Glorifying your role model makes you sound naíve. Focus instead on describing the person in an insightful manner and explaining why you value what he or she represents. You might even have reason to differentiate yourself from your role model in specific ways, though the overall purpose should be to describe what you admire and want to emulate.
  • Describe and illustrate specific qualities.  My role model essays should be accurate. Avoid relying on vague language that merely depicts your role model as “brilliant” or “compassionate.” Instead, aim for a more penetrating portrait that captures your role model’s complexities. Moreover, just because you’re not writing about yourself does not mean that you don’t have to back up your claims. Show your role model in detailed action to convey the qualities that he or she embodies.

Brian P.

  • Tell stories.  Using specific anecdotes is the best way to achieve depth in your description. By describing the details of a particular episode, you can convey much more about a person than by listing any number of characteristics.
  • Show the role model’s tangible influence on you.  The best way to demonstrate the importance your role model has played in your life is to recount changes you’ve made based on that person’s influence. Of course, you should not come across as a sycophant or a blind follower. But you can show how your role model provoked ideas that then initiated a course of action.

Need help? Check out EssayEdge editing services:

This applicant offers a meaningful portrait of his father in just 300 words. Unlike the previous applicant , he chooses to name the qualities that he admires right from the outset, but he then goes on to justify them with concrete examples.

Read more about What’s your hobby?

Let’s imagine that you’ve found the perfect role model and even wrote your paper. It would be fantastic, but what about the inconsistencies and mistakes? Can you get rid of them or not? Please, send your paper to us. We are the best online editing service ready to tackle even the messiest writing.

Robin W. - professional essay editor and proofreader

Popular Posts

June 2, 2022 How To Start a Scholarship Essay: Catch Reader’s Attention Fast

May 16, 2022 My Role Model Essay: A Few Ways to Elaborate on The Subject

May 3, 2022 How To Start a Personal Statement? | Writing Tips and Samples

Related Posts

April 23, 2024 How to Overcome Writer’s Block and Craft a Perfect College Essay

March 1, 2023 Questions to Ask In a College Interview

January 19, 2022 5 Steps to Deal with Burnout and Anxiety While Preparing for Admission

©2024 Student Media LLC. All rights reserved.

EssayEdge: Essay Editing & Proofreading Service.

Our mission is to prepare you for academic and career success.

  •   Log In  
  •   Sign Up  
  • Forgot password

Unable to log in? Please clear your browser's cache and then refresh this page and try again

Reset password Please enter your email address to request a password reset.

check you email

Check your email We’ve just sent a password reset link to your email.

This information is used to create your account

Pitchgrade

Presentations made painless

  • Get Premium

113 Role Model Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Role models are individuals who inspire and motivate us to be our best selves. They can be famous figures, family members, teachers, or even friends who embody the qualities and characteristics we admire. Writing an essay about a role model can be a great way to reflect on the impact they have had on your life and the lessons you have learned from them. To help you get started, here are 113 role model essay topic ideas and examples:

  • My role model: my mother
  • A role model who has overcome adversity
  • The qualities of a good role model
  • How my role model has inspired me to pursue my dreams
  • The impact of a celebrity role model on society
  • My role model in sports
  • How my role model has influenced my career choices
  • A historical figure who is a role model to me
  • The importance of having a positive role model in life
  • How my role model has taught me the value of hard work
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of kindness
  • My role model in the arts
  • The role model who has taught me the value of perseverance
  • How my role model has helped shape my values and beliefs
  • The impact of a teacher as a role model
  • My role model in business
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of honesty
  • The influence of a sibling as a role model
  • My role model in politics
  • How my role model has taught me the importance of empathy
  • A role model who has inspired me to be a better person
  • The role model who has shown me the importance of education
  • My role model in science
  • How my role model has taught me the value of resilience
  • The impact of a friend as a role model
  • My role model in music
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of generosity
  • The role model who has inspired me to be a leader
  • How my role model has taught me the value of teamwork
  • A role model who has shown me the importance of self-care
  • My role model in literature
  • The influence of a grandparent as a role model
  • How my role model has taught me the importance of humility
  • The impact of a coach as a role model
  • My role model in technology
  • A role model who has inspired me to be creative
  • The role model who has shown me the importance of environmental stewardship
  • How my role model has taught me the value of diversity
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of social justice
  • My role model in fashion
  • The influence of a mentor as a role model
  • How my role model has inspired me to be a better communicator
  • The impact of a religious leader as a role model
  • My role model in film
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of forgiveness
  • The role model who has inspired me to be a lifelong learner
  • How my role model has taught me the value of integrity
  • A role model who has shown me the importance of mindfulness
  • My role model in activism
  • The influence of a neighbor as a role model
  • How my role model has inspired me to be a compassionate person
  • My role model in healthcare
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of self-reflection
  • The role model who has shown me the importance of community service
  • How my role model has taught me the value of self-discipline
  • A role model who has inspired me to be a lifelong volunteer
  • The influence of a teacher as a role model
  • My role model in psychology
  • How my role model has inspired me to be a better listener
  • The impact of a parent as a role model
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of gratitude
  • The role model who has shown me the importance of self-acceptance
  • How my role model has taught me the value of self-love
  • A role model who has inspired me to be a better friend
  • My role model in architecture
  • The influence of a colleague as a role model
  • How my role model has inspired me to be a better team player
  • The impact of a leader as a role model
  • My role model in education
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of mindfulness
  • The role model who has shown me the importance of self-care
  • How my role model has taught me the value of self-awareness
  • A role model who has inspired me to be a better problem solver
  • The influence of a coach as a role model
  • How my role model has inspired me to be a better innovator
  • The impact of a mentor as a role model
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of adaptability
  • The role model who has shown me the importance of resilience
  • How my role model has taught me the value of perseverance
  • A role model who has inspired me to be a better leader
  • The influence of a parent as a role model
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of empathy
  • The role model who has shown me the importance of kindness
  • A role model who has inspired me to be a better listener
  • The influence of a friend as a role model
  • How my role model has inspired me to be a better problem solver
  • A role model who has taught me the importance of resilience
  • A role model who has inspired me to be a better team player
  • The role model who has shown me the importance of perseverance
  • A role model who has taught me the value of self-love
  • How my role model has inspired me to be a better leader
  • The role model who has shown me the importance of self-awareness
  • How my role model has taught me the value of self-care

These are just a few examples of role model essay topics that you can explore. Remember, the key to writing a compelling essay about a role model is to reflect on the impact they have had on your life and the lessons you have learned from them. Whether it's a family member, a friend, a teacher, or a celebrity, there are countless role models out there who can inspire and motivate you to be your best self.

Want to create a presentation now?

Instantly Create A Deck

Let PitchGrade do this for me

Hassle Free

We will create your text and designs for you. Sit back and relax while we do the work.

Explore More Content

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

© 2023 Pitchgrade

loading

How it works

For Business

Join Mind Tools

Article • 8 min read

How to Be a Good Role Model

Setting a positive example at work.

By the Mind Tools Content Team

how to be a role model student essay

Have you ever worked with a boss who kept calm and positive, even when he or she was under enormous pressure? Perhaps you've looked up to a co-worker who consistently went the extra mile for others.

Now consider how others see your behavior. Do you think you are a good role model for the people around you? You may not realize it, but your actions, attitudes, outlook, and ethics are likely influencing your team members, and being mirrored by them.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of being a good role model, and what you can do to become one.

What Is a Role Model?

According to psychologist Albert Bandura's Social Learning Theory [1], people develop by observing others' behaviors and copying them.

In particular, Bandura found that behaviors tend to "trickle down." In other words, a group takes its cues from its leaders.

So, if you demonstrate strong qualities like integrity, honesty, and openness, you'll encourage your team members to behave in a similar way. But leaders who practice – or reward – bad behavior are likely to develop cultures in which individuals put their own interests ahead of the team's.

Be the role model your team needs! See the transcript for this video here .

The Benefits of a Good Role Model

Good role models have a positive effect on the people around them. They're widely respected, and teams work harder and put in extra effort for people that they admire.

Organizations want leaders who will encourage and inspire others to be at their best, so good role models tend to be among the first to be considered for promotion.

They also find it easy to build alliances across an organization, as their reputation and personal brand are strong. So, if you take steps to become a good role model, you'll likely create a more effective team and business, and you'll boost your own career, too.

Six Traits of a Good Role Model

Good role models typically exhibit the following personality traits or qualities: self-awareness, positivity, humility, empathy, professionalism, and integrity. Let's look at them in more detail.

1. Self-Awareness

Do you know what role you're portraying at work? You can find out by increasing your self-awareness . This is the ability to reflect honestly and productively on your behavior, and on the impact that you have on others.

Once you can see yourself more clearly, you can develop self-mastery and self-regulation , too. And, by managing your emotions and well-being in this way, you'll have the ability to align what you do – and how you do it – with your values.

So, you'll be more true to yourself and affect others more positively. You'll likely get a positive response in return!

2. Positivity

Negative people drag down those who have to work with them. By contrast, a positive attitude can help to develop an energetic, can-do team spirit .

No one can be cheerful all the time, but you can look for opportunities in difficult situations. So, focus on what your team can do in any given situation, not on what it can't , and help it to build on those successes.

3. Humility

Good role models practice humility . They're honest when they're not sure what to do, and are happy to ask questions and learn. They are comfortable with encouraging other people to flourish, they give credit where it's due, and they don't hide behind rank or experience.

Empathy involves understanding the emotional needs of your people. You can develop empathy by using mindful listening , so that you really hear and understand what people are telling you. The more you're able to identify and connect with team members in this way, the more trust you'll build, and the stronger those connections will be.

5. Professionalism

Demonstrating professionalism means holding your actions and your work to an excellent standard. It involves more than just getting the job done – it taps into deeper personal qualities of integrity, honesty and respect for others.

You can demonstrate your professionalism by simple acts like getting to meetings on time, dressing and communicating appropriately, and being reliable and conscientious .

6. Integrity

Integrity is doing the right thing for the right reasons, even if that means not taking the easiest option. If you show integrity and a commitment to authenticity and ethical leadership , your team members will likely respond with the most important characteristic of good teamwork: trust .

Living with integrity is one of the cornerstones of being a good role model, as it is among the qualities that individuals and organizations look for most in their leaders. See our article, Preserving Integrity , for more on this vital trait.

Four Ways to Be a Good Role Model

You might have the necessary attributes to be a good role model, but how will you put them into practice for the best effect? Let's look at a few day-to-day examples below:

  • Communicating effectively with your team. Strong communication skills are important for any role model. They'll help you to foster high-quality connections and to build relationships based on trust and respect.
  • Supporting your organization's values. Good role models demonstrate their commitment to their employer's desired ways of working, and guide the behavior of their team members accordingly. For example, you could volunteer for the company's corporate social responsibility program , or support a co-worker's inclusion and engagement by encouraging them to join relevant Employee Resource Groups if they exist. You'll also be sure to tackle any bad behavior promptly and effectively.
  • Working collaboratively. Good team players put their own egos aside and focus on the good of the group. As a role model, this is an attitude you'll be sure to adopt. Create a Skills Matrix and assess your own and your people's strengths, weaknesses and preferred working styles. Then assign team roles and responsibilities for the best fit to promote collaboration – you'll all be more successful!
  • Supporting innovation. Take the lead when it comes to acquiring new skills and embracing new technologies that will help your business. As a role model, it's important that you stay "ahead of the curve." Encourage people who show initiative and creativity, give team members time for self-directed and social learning , and use tools such as SOAR Analysis to channel aspirations into practical action.

Being a good role model benefits both you and the people who work with you. Good role models are widely respected, and they often find themselves in leadership positions. People naturally look up to them, seek to do their best for them, and copy their behaviors.

To be a good role model, focus on developing the following six personal qualities:

  • Self-awareness.
  • Positivity.
  • Professionalism.

As you engage with your team members and offer yourself as a role model, try to do the following:

  • Communicate effectively with your team.
  • Support your organization's values.
  • Work collaboratively.
  • Support innovation.

[1] Bandura, A. (1976). 'Social Learning Theory.' New Jersey: Prentice-Hall.

You've accessed 1 of your 2 free resources.

Get unlimited access

Discover more content

Expert Interviews

The Industries of the Future

Open leadership.

Charlene Li

Add comment

Comments (1)

this is shit'!!!!!1

how to be a role model student essay

Get 30% off your first year of Mind Tools

Great teams begin with empowered leaders. Our tools and resources offer the support to let you flourish into leadership. Join today!

Sign-up to our newsletter

Subscribing to the Mind Tools newsletter will keep you up-to-date with our latest updates and newest resources.

Subscribe now

Business Skills

Personal Development

Leadership and Management

Member Extras

Most Popular

Newest Releases

Article a0cafmm

Top Tips for Tackling Problem Behavior

Article agbhks2

Defeat Procrastination for Good

Mind Tools Store

About Mind Tools Content

Discover something new today

What is stakeholder management.

Planning Your Stakeholder Communications

GE-McKinsey Matrix

Determining Investment Priorities

How Emotionally Intelligent Are You?

Boosting Your People Skills

Self-Assessment

What's Your Leadership Style?

Learn About the Strengths and Weaknesses of the Way You Like to Lead

Recommended for you

Top tips for tackling your long hours culture.

Keeping Your Workload Under Control Helps Both Your Work and Home Life

Business Operations and Process Management

Strategy Tools

Customer Service

Business Ethics and Values

Handling Information and Data

Project Management

Knowledge Management

Self-Development and Goal Setting

Time Management

Presentation Skills

Learning Skills

Career Skills

Communication Skills

Negotiation, Persuasion and Influence

Working With Others

Difficult Conversations

Creativity Tools

Self-Management

Work-Life Balance

Stress Management and Wellbeing

Coaching and Mentoring

Change Management

Team Management

Managing Conflict

Delegation and Empowerment

Performance Management

Leadership Skills

Developing Your Team

Talent Management

Problem Solving

Decision Making

Member Podcast

  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • This Or That Game
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • Education and Communications
  • Personal Development

How to Be a Role Model

Last Updated: April 18, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Jennifer Guttman, PsyD and by wikiHow staff writer, Janice Tieperman . Dr. Jennifer Guttman, is a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, Clinical Psychologist, and the Founder of the Sustainable Life Satisfaction®, a motivational and lifestyle platform. With over 30 years of experience and practice in New York City and Westport, Dr. Guttman specializes in treating people struggling with acute behavioral disorders stemming from anxiety, depression, stress, attention deficit, and phobias. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Drew University and a Doctor of Psychology from Long Island University. Dr. Guttman is the author of "A Path To Life Satisfaction Workbook (2018),” a monthly blog contributor to Psychology Today and Thrive Global, and a contributor to articles in major publications, media sites, and podcasts including The Washington Post, Reader's Digest, Redbook, Teen Vogue, Health, mindbodygreen.com, Harvesting Happiness, and Unshakable Self-Confidence. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 290,214 times.

Being a role model is a big responsibility, especially when you’re on the job. How can you set a great example for your peers without setting impossible expectations for yourself? Don’t worry–you’ve come to the right place. We’ve outlined plenty of simple qualities and characteristics associated with good role models, as well as easy ways to apply those traits in the moment. When the next workday rolls around, you’ll be able to put your best foot forward!

Things You Should Know

  • To be a role model in any context, acknowledge and improve your weaknesses while owning up to your mistakes. Transparency is better than perfection.
  • Respect everyone around you and empathize with them to earn their trust and admiration.
  • Communicate openly, honestly, and directly. Listen to what others have to say with respect and consideration.

Act confidently.

Role models have faith in their own capabilities without being arrogant.

  • Taking the lead on a project that matches your skillset
  • Politely correcting a co-worker when they share incorrect information
  • Bringing an idea to your boss or manager

Address your weaknesses.

Role models aren’t afraid to approach their weaknesses in a new way.

  • Ask a superior for advice on how to handle a tough project
  • Say “no” to new commitments if you already have a full schedule
  • Ask a tech-savvy co-worker to walk you through a feature in Photoshop

Respect everyone around you.

Respect earns you other people’s trust and admiration.

  • Waiting for your turn to speak
  • Offering a helping hand
  • Apologizing if you mess up during a project
  • Thanking someone for their time [5] X Research source

Prioritize good communication.

Good role models know how to talk to their teammates.

  • Practice active listening skills
  • Sit or stand with a relaxed, open posture
  • Compliment someone on a job well done [7] X Research source

Share constructive feedback.

Role models give their peers plenty of opportunities to improve.

  • “I appreciate all the hard work you put into this draft. Would you mind giving it another read-through for small errors and typos?”
  • “Your eye contact felt a bit spotty during the presentation. I totally get where you’re coming from–I find that it helps to look at different people when I’m speaking to a crowd.”

Push yourself to keep learning.

A true role model always wants to improve and is never satisfied with complacency.

  • If you’d really like to go the extra mile, enroll in a class or degree program that’s related to your career path.
  • You might practice using a difficult piece of software over the weekend so you feel more comfortable with it during the workweek.

Admit when you do something wrong.

Role models embrace transparency, not perfection.

  • “I completely underestimated how long that task was going to take. I’m so sorry for making you wait!”
  • “I’m really sorry, guys. This one’s on me.”
  • “I take full responsibility for what happened here. You have every right to be upset.”

Set high goals.

True role models expect great things from both themselves and their peers.

  • “I’m hoping to finish this assignment by the end of the week.”
  • “It would be great if we could submit this project by next Wednesday.”
  • “I know that we can get this done by the deadline.”

Live life with integrity.

A good role model thrives on fairness and honesty.

  • For example, don’t offer to proofread one co-worker’s writing but refuse to help another. Instead, wait until you have enough time to help multiple people at once.
  • Don’t tell one co-worker about a cool new work opportunity but leave your other, equally-qualified teammate in the dark.

Carry your weight.

Role models always work as a team and never leave their work to someone else.

  • For instance, you might finish your assignment for a group project several days before the deadline instead of waiting until the last second.

Enjoy your day-to-day work.

Role models embrace their job even when things are slow.

  • Enjoying your job actually helps you get more satisfaction in the long run.

Approach life with optimism.

Optimism offers more opportunities for growth than pessimism.

  • “It stinks that we didn’t meet our monthly goal, but now we’re ahead of the game for the next month!”
  • “We might not have made as much money as we hoped, but now we can make a more targeted marketing strategy toward our customers.”

Welcome new ideas.

A good role model trusts their team’s innovations.

  • “That’s a fantastic idea, Jenn. I really think you should bring that up at the next team meeting!”
  • “I love that idea, Markus. How about you give it a try for a week or so and let me know how things are going?”

Be yourself.

Great role models are unapologetically themselves.

  • Share a funny pun or corny joke with a peer
  • Wear your favorite outfit to work, even if it isn’t super stylish

Gigi Hadid

Be honest and authentic about how you live your life. "My biggest thing about being a role model is whatever I’m preaching, I’m practicing."

Expert Q&A

Jennifer Guttman, PsyD

You Might Also Like

Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

  • ↑ https://www.ccu.edu/blogs/cags/2017/06/10-characteristics-of-an-effective-manager/
  • ↑ https://online.champlain.edu/blog/top-qualities-of-a-great-leader
  • ↑ Jennifer Guttman, PsyD. Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Expert Interview. 26 July 2021.
  • ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/brentgleeson/2016/11/09/10-unique-perspectives-on-what-makes-a-great-leader/?sh=42101a6e5dd1
  • ↑ https://www.utmb.edu/impact/home/2017/02/17/top-10-ways-to-show-respect-in-the-workplace
  • ↑ https://www.waldenu.edu/programs/business/resource/what-makes-a-good-leader-ten-essential-qualities-to-learn
  • ↑ https://post.edu/blog/7-tips-for-developing-superior-workplace-communication-skills/
  • ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5709796/
  • ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/deeppatel/2017/03/22/11-powerful-traits-of-successful-leaders/?sh=21407a27469f
  • ↑ https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/characteristics-of-an-effective-leader
  • ↑ https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/six_tips_for_speaking_up_against_bad_behavior

About This Article

Jennifer Guttman, PsyD

When you’re trying to be a role model, setting a good example is key. For example, if you want to teach your kids to be kind, reinforce the lesson by being kind to others. It’s also important to let those who look up to you know that it’s okay to be imperfect by owning up to your mistakes and apologizing. Additionally, be consistent with your words and actions, and always do your best to follow through if you say you are going to do something. If you’re a teacher, keep reading to learn how to be a role model for your students! Did this summary help you? Yes No

  • Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Faiqa M.

May 13, 2023

Did this article help you?

how to be a role model student essay

Mar 26, 2017

Nightcat Sue

Nightcat Sue

Aug 12, 2017

Morgan

Apr 27, 2016

Anshuman Tripathy

Anshuman Tripathy

Aug 22, 2017

Am I a Narcissist or an Empath Quiz

Featured Articles

Relive the 1970s (for Kids)

Trending Articles

What Do I Want in a Weight Loss Program Quiz

Watch Articles

Make Sugar Cookies

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Home / Essay Samples / Life / Hero / Role Models

Role Models Essay Examples

Essays about role models aim to explore the influential individuals who inspire and guide others through their actions, values, and achievements. The purpose of such essay examples is to highlight the positive impact that role models have on personal development, education, and societal progress. These essays celebrate the qualities that make role models exceptional and encourage readers to reflect on the attributes they admire and aspire to emulate. 1. Inspiration and Empowerment Primary goals of essays about role models is to inspire and empower readers. These essays showcase the stories of individuals who have overcome challenges, demonstrated perseverance, and achieved success. By sharing these stories, essays encourage readers to set ambitious goals, believe in their potential, and pursue their aspirations. Role models often embody virtues such as integrity, compassion, determination, and leadership. Essays on this topic focus on these values, discussing how they contribute to personal growth and the betterment of society. These essays encourage readers to integrate these values into their own lives. Role models essays encourage readers to reflect on the qualities they admire in others and to identify the role models who have influenced them. Through self-discovery, readers gain a deeper understanding of their values and aspirations, helping them make positive life choices. Tips for Writing Essays About Role Models:

Select a Role Model: Choose a role model who has personally influenced you or made a significant impact in their field. Thesis Statement: Begin with a clear thesis that introduces the role model and outlines the main qualities you will discuss. Personal Connection: Share personal anecdotes or experiences that illustrate how the role model has affected your life. Highlight Key Qualities: Discuss the specific qualities, achievements, and contributions of the role model. Impact on Society: Explore how the role model’s actions have influenced others and society as a whole. Lessons Learned: Reflect on the lessons and values you’ve learned from the role model and how they have shaped your own growth. Encourage Self-Reflection: Encourage readers to reflect on their own role models and qualities they admire. Conclusion: Summarize the role model’s significance and the lasting impact they’ve had on your life and society.

Essays about role models celebrate the individuals who inspire us to become better versions of ourselves. By exploring their qualities and achievements, these essays encourage readers to learn from their examples and work towards personal growth and positive societal change.

My Current Day Living Hero (role Model)

Many of us have role models in our lives and most people have athletes, movie stars or other celebrities as their role models. However, to me a role model not necessarily mean a celebrity, he/she can even be a simple person, who has positively influenced...

My Heroes: the People Who Inspire Me Through My Life

The people we admire and consider as heroes are those who have made significant contributions to society and have inspired us to be better individuals. In my case, I have been fortunate enough to have come across many such individuals in my life who have...

Stephen Hawking as a Role Model: a Symbol of Hope and Intelligence

Stephen Hawking is a hero in the disabled community because of his efforts to show that even with a diagnosis of something like ALS you can still achieve your dreams. Achievements in science and technology as well as life-story of Stephen Hawking make him a...

My Role Model: Albert Einstein

My role model that I chose was the genius Albert Einstein, so this is Albert Einstein essay where I will share why hi is my role model. To start off, Albert Einstein was born on March 14, 1879. He died about 76 years later. He...

My Brother is the Main Reason Why I Am Thankful for My Family

There was nothing more comforting than knowing I had an older brother to protect me from all the things I feared. He was there for me when I woke up from a bad dream and helped me get through my worst days at school. The...

Nelson Mandela - Leading the Fight for Human Rights

Role models are people who show passion for their work and have the capacity to challenge others. They are usually famous for doing something great, what makes other people admire them. Role models have a clear sense of what is vital, so that they put...

My Role Model: My Parents

Throughout our lives, we encounter various individuals who influence our thoughts, actions, and aspirations. Among these, my parents stand out as my ultimate role models. Their unwavering love, guidance, and values have shaped me into the person I am today, inspiring me to strive for...

Why Steve Harvey is My Role Model: His Biography and Success

The man, comedian, entrepreneur author, humanitarian, provider, motivator and father. Steve Harvey is an icon for Americans and worldwide young and old. The legendary Steve Harvey is also my role model - a person which will be the main character for this essay. Looking at...

Teacher as a Role Model: an Example of a Great Teacher

Teachers are some of the most important role models in our lives. They have a profound impact on the development and growth of young people, shaping their values, beliefs, and attitudes in ways that can last a lifetime. As someone who has had the privilege...

Leonardo Dicaprio – a Great Role Model for Me

While there are plenty of people who still think that global warming isn't real, and the Earth is flat, some of them are actually trying to change the world to the better. One of them is Leonardo DiCaprio — the best actor of his generation...

Trying to find an excellent essay sample but no results?

Don’t waste your time and get a professional writer to help!

You may also like

  • Family History
  • Personal Experience
  • Challenges Essays
  • Idol Essays
  • Risk Taking Essays
  • Famous Person Essays
  • Power Essays
  • Bravery Essays
  • Superhero Essays
  • Betrayal Essays
  • Courage Essays
  • Inspiration Essays

About Role Models

A role model is someone others look to as a good example. A role model is someone who is worthy of imitation — like your beloved teacher or a well-behaved celebrity. Just as a model is something that represents an inspirational ideal, a role model is someone who inspires others to imitate his or her good behavior.

samplius.com uses cookies to offer you the best service possible.By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .--> --> Read more » -->