Support our College Students

"Don't ask me, because I haven't figured it out yet and all you are doing is stressing me out!"

In my late teens I use to remember going to family gatherings and avoiding my aunts or uncles who were likely to ask "So, what's your major?" "Have you figured out what you want to do when you graduate?" I know they meant well, but this question would always stress me out. I barely started living my life and now I am expected to know what I will do for the rest of it?

We can however, be helpful to our college students, in the following ways:

1. Emotional Support:

College can be stressful, so be there to lend a listening ear. Encourage open conversations about their challenges, fears, and successes. Offer empathy and understanding, and help them navigate any emotional ups and downs.

2. Academic Guidance:

Offer advice on study strategies, time management, and organization. Help them set realistic academic goals and offer assistance if they're struggling with a particular subject. If you have expertise in a relevant field, offer to review their work or provide insights.

3. Encouragement:

Believe in their abilities and aspirations. Offer words of encouragement and remind them of their strengths, especially during challenging times.

4. Be a Resource:

Share your own experiences and insights when relevant. This can provide them with valuable perspectives and help them feel supported.

5. Help with Career Planning:

Assist with career exploration by sharing information about different industries, offering networking connections, and providing guidance on potential career paths. Getting access to internships is key here. By the time I was 17, I had already worked for 3 Law Firms, and had a resume with real world experience.

6. Respect Their Independence:

While offering support, also respect their need for independence. College is a time for personal growth, so give them space to make their own decisions and learn from their experiences.

7. Celebrate Achievements:

Celebrate their milestones and achievements, no matter how big or small. Acknowledge their hard work and dedication.

8. Offer Problem-Solving:

When they face challenges, provide guidance on problem-solving without taking over. Encourage them to think critically and develop their own solutions.

9. Mental Health Support:

Be attentive to their mental health and well-being. Encourage them to seek counseling or professional help if needed, and let them know it's okay to prioritize self-care.

Lastly, I'd like to share that any working experience is a good exposure for our students. They learn how to communicate with professionals, figure out what they are good at, are struggling with, and what interests them. For me, my first job was being a Data Entry Operator for Cornell's Department of Anatomical Pathology. This job gave me an appreciation for the use of technology in the work place, and fueled my desire to learn and do more in this field, which led to what I do and love today.