"What Secret Regrets Did For My Students"

By Kathy Oakland
Human Relations Instructor
Department of Education
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa



I have been sharing something amazing with my Human Relations students since 2011 that has literally changed their lives. I know it can make a dramatic impact on the lives of your students too. I included Kevin Hansen's “Secret Regrets: What if you had a Second Chance?” book as required reading for my students. The book is based off Kevin’s award-winning website, www.SecretRegrets.com, and features hundreds of anonymous shocking, jaw-dropping confessions of regret from people of all ages – from all over the world. It also includes hundreds of heartfelt comments left by complete strangers, offering support, compassion, advice and guidance.

What this book has done for my students is almost indescribable. It lets them take an unprecedented voyeuristic peek into the deep, dark secret corners of the minds of others, where many actually found a true reflection of themselves. Many of my students will become teachers, and the book clued them in to what is going to be going on in the private lives of their students as well. They made the connection that behaviors and actions demonstrated in their classes may be masking situations their students are dealing with at home. For my students to discover that perspective now was a priceless experience.

After my students finish the book, Kevin to comes and speaks to our class. My students have a chance to hear about how the book came together, and they hear more follow up stories on people who posted their secret regrets. They have the chance to ask Kevin questions, and he responds graciously. Its an amazing experience for all of us!

I continue to add  “Secret Regrets: What if you had a Second Chance” to my required reading list for upcoming semesters. I would strongly encourage other instructors consider adding this for your students as well. It's a low-cost, quick read (only 146 pages) and is an easy add-on to your current curriculum. I honestly believe that reading the book will change lives of those in your classroom. And possibly even save lives.

I would also be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Thanks for considering this!

Kathy Oakland
kathy.oakland@uni.edu
319-273-2591