A good educationis something both
children and adults take for granted. Collectively, many students and teachers have lost their passion and integrity in regards to the learning process. Due to a decreasing interest and engagement towards course material, the same four walls that have opened doors in the past, have simultaneously hindered potential and growth. A creative mind is a stubborn mind. Without the appreciation and challenge it deserves, it cannot thrive.
Today, many of us have our parents to thank for encouraging us to move forward, to pursue our academic aspirations and find triumph post graduation. Although a diploma cannot guarantee a career, it promises a healthy, progressive perspective. It is a combination of our intrinsic motivation and the support of our loved ones that we may attribute our success to.
Education has long since played a role in my life. From calculating the tip for our waitress, to converting measurements on a cookie recipe, my parents have provided my siblings and I with learning opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom. However, I much prefer words over numbers. Since moving out, my experience in education has only grown stronger. I have acquired a confidence and independence that cannot be taught from a lesson plan. More importantly, I have developed the ability to be an effective communicator. The influence and foundation I have gathered from my youth has offered me the tools and resources necessary to build my own future. Below I have selected a few lessons I have taken with me and would like to share with you today.
Three Lessons:
- First impressions are important. Being the best version of yourself is attractive. Smile, sit up straight. Approach each day as an opportunity to stand out from your peers. Practice and consider how your meeting, interview, presentation will go. Make them remember you.
- Being early is being on time. Arriving early is always a good idea. Even if you are familiar with the location, you cannot fully anticipate traffic or construction. Just as a runner practices their route prior to race day, tracking the drive in advance will do you no harm.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to ask again. I am learning this lesson everyday as I encounter new experiences in my major. As a student, I am constantly gaining knowledge in various areas. Regardless of perseverance, striving for a helping hand is nothing to be ashamed of.
It is no secret that educators do not receive the appreciation nor compensation they deserve. Therefore, It is our job to embrace our relationships with these teachers, professors, faculty, in order to maintain a healthy environment for future educators to inhabit. Everyday, we are influenced by those around us. Therefore, it is essential that we reciprocate the positivity and candor we have received ourselves.
