Set Yourself Up to Succeed

I taught a student who is a natural leader. Even as an underclassman I saw him take ownership of things he was passionate about. He was in my class as both a sophomore and a senior, and both times he was a wonderful student, not only academically, but he was just fun to have in class. He would participate, add jokes into conversations, ask great questions, etc. Between his actions in the classroom, his activities outside of it, and varying demographic features that would play in his favor with college admissions, I knew he could get accepted to some great schools - and I was more than happy to write glowing recommendations for him.

Initially, when he decided to remain at the university in our city, I was disappointed. But when we talked about it, I realized that he had figured out that he could be in the top percent of his class here, both academically and as a leader. Going to a big name school would look great, but he would be average (or just above) there; he wanted to develop his skills and gifts in a real and meaningful way, and he knew he could be set apart here.

That insight and decision-making was well beyond the maturity of an average 18-year-old boy, and considering he attended a high school that is very competitive, I'm sure it took a lot of faith in himself not to buckle when people reacted to his college selection.

Today he is fulfilling what he set out to do; he is about to reach the midway point, and he has created a name for himself in various facets of campus life. While it's so easy to get caught up in the hype around prestige, this student reminded me that doing that means making decisions for others; however, if you put yourself in situations where you can grow and develop, regardless of prestige, then you are doing that for yourself.

Purpose of the Project

Many people think my job is simply to educate the future. That's only a small part of it. However, something most do not know is how much I've learned from my students over the years. That's what this blog is about - the kids who have changed my perceptions, redirected my attitudes, and made me laugh and enjoy the moment. Without them my life would a lot duller, and I would not be the person I am today.