Why was Cindy surprised when she talked with Mr.mitchell after class?

Cindy was surprised when she talked with Mr. Mitchell after class because he offered her unexpected praise for her recent project, highlighting her creativity and effort. She had always seen him as strict and critical, so his positive feedback caught her off guard. Additionally, he shared some personal insights about his own experiences, which made her feel more connected to him as a mentor. This interaction changed her perception of him and boosted her confidence.