My Recommendations for Students in 2018-19

"Let me start with issuing you a challenge: Be better than you are. Set a goal that seems unattainable, and when you reach that goal, set another one even higher." - Herb Brooks

Whether this is your first year as an undergrad at a college/university, or you are embarking on the last year of graduate studies, the start of another academic year is a great time to set goals for yourself. In life, it's important to focus on what we can control, so that when the uncontrollable inevitably occurs, you won't slip far off course. As professional communicators, we set goals for clients; as educators, we create syllabi for our classes to keep students on task.

I recently visited Lake Placid, New York with my family. It was a chance to recharge my mental and physical batteries as well as enjoy the scenery and take some stock on the upcoming academic year, as well. Zip lining in the Adirondacks can do wonders for your mind and soul. When you land and see (photo to the right) a blue sky, the peaks of mountains, and cool air in your face, it's very hard not to be invigorated.

One of the other great things about Lake Placid is its history in the annals of sports. A little event occurred there in February of 1980. It's where the United States Men's Hockey Team defeated the Soviets in the "Miracle on Ice." I could not wait to enter the rink and see where it actually happened. The picture to the left is where I sat for 30 minutes and just let my mind think back to that remarkable February day when some "college students" defeated a team of professionals. Before Team USA took to the ice, the late Herb Brooks, the team's coach, told them "Great moments are born from great opportunity... that's what you've earned here." He ended the speech with, "This is your time.. Now go out there and take it!"

Great moments from great opportunity and this being your time is important context as the academic year begins. With that in mind, here are five of my recommendations for capitalizing your own opportunities.

1. Start Strong- On the first day of classes, don't focus on what's on your phone, computer, or where you want to eat lunch. Immerse yourself in what you need to succeed. Is there anything to read prior to class number one? Read the syllabus and ask questions if you don't understand or need something clarified. Make sure you also know when a professor is available during the semester to discuss assignments, projects, or prep for midterm/final.
2. Don't get insulted by "failure"- You've heard from everyone how you can learn from failure. It's absolutely true. I've failed numerous times. Whether it was as an undergrad, in my media career, or as a PR pro. It sucks. BUT, you don't learn from "winning" every day. You learn from failing. Don't get bothered if you get a grade lower than an A. I can as much about you about making sure you do well. But, not getting a perfect grade can be an opportunity to learn. Ask what you can improve on. How can I learn from this? That leads into...
3. Professor's office hours are vital- I don't set office hours just because we have to be there. I set them because I want to meet with students to discuss their successes, struggles, and to help them improve. My door is always open when I'm in my office. Why? Because you, as the student, deserve my attention. But, if you don't take advantage of this time, you are missing out on a chance to learn. Don't wait until November to visit with a professor. Start early (see #1).
4. Be part of the class discussion; not the silence- I get it. You don't want to be the one of the three people in class that always answer questions in class. My classroom is one where I love to discuss, not lecture. I could "lecture up" if I wanted to. But what does this accomplish? Heavy eyelids and students using their computers order from Amazon (yes, I notice). You can actually learn from group discussion, whether you agree or disagree with the direction. Challenge me. Add to your knowledge and help me understand where you are coming form on a topic.
5. This can be FUN- While I want the assigned work to get completed, I also want students to feel that when they come to class, either two-days-a-week or a block class (3 hours), it's a chance to enjoy what we discussing, learning, and working on together. My classroom isn't a prison. It's a place to collaborate and share experiences. We talk a ton in American University's School of Communication about experiential learning. The only way to teach and show you what your future holds, is to bring the experience to you. It can, and will, be fun.

Remember, don't wait until the end of the semester, or when the academic year is over to say, "I wish I had..." Start strong, start smart. This really is your time. So take it!