A Success Formula for Returning Students
October 9, 2008
Speaking to students at high schools and colleges is one of my career’s highlights.
The ability to present ideas and information to young minds and the interaction with them after the event reminds me that there is still hope for the future.
Each time I’m invited to speak, I ensure that my presentations stay on track as I combine the topic with:
- A history lesson based on the subject
- Present trends that shape their lives and the world
- How the music they love interacts with the subject
Becoming comfortable with new surroundings, both inside the classroom and with peers, are incredibly important to today’s students. I remember how critical it was when I was in school.
That comfort zone helped me to form great relationships that I still maintain today. Here’s the educational success formula I followed and discuss in the book, Smart Students’ Guide to…Successful Transition into College.
- Immediately review the student handbook. This manual was created with you in mind, explaining campus procedures and identifying counselors who are there to assist you. The handbook smooths familiarity all around campus.
- Find and join a group. Being part of an organization is one of the quickest ways to find lifelong friends. The group may be a fraternity or sorority, or it might cetner around music, sports, or science.Best of all, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded individuals while you learn about other positive traits you have in common.
- Choose a study rhythm and stick with it. Do you study better on your own, or is a group setting more your style? Is it easier to retain test information while reviewing notes at night or first thing in the morning?Once you determine your study strengths and weaknesses, you’ll know when to concentrate for best results.
There are many more success formulas to share with your students, and I look forward to elevating their progress when I speak at your school. Email Emma to arrange a presentation.
How to Avoid Distractions in School and in Business
April 22, 2008
Who has the best widget, program, or software this week? I guarantee that no matter where you’re located, someone wants you to see the latest, greatest something, and if you try it once, the creator promises that it will change your life.
I’ve heard this claim hundreds of times while in college and operating a business. How about you? Very few times, if ever, has this claim positively altered my study practices or post-college goals. Three things have occurred in most cases:
- Time drain while attempting to learn a process that took me back to the basics (what I had been doing)
- Energy overload becoming enthused with a product that promised a positive result but did not deliver
- Wasted money (if available for a fee) due to a convincing sales pitch
I’ll admit that some items do deliver, but many more are a distraction, delaying your arrival from the goal you want to reach.
Here are three methods I suggest to students or business owners when speaking at seminars throughout the world to determine if a new program is a distraction or good deal:
- Ask yourself before opting in, “How will this item create a better experience from what I use now?”
- Search for comments from other users. You’ll be able to tell the good reviews from those that are planted or mean spirited.
- Compare the pros and cons with competitive options.
You’ll deal with many distractions throughout your life. Develop good habits now to make the best decisions as you sidestep your way to success.
[tags] college success tips, business success tips[/tags]
Leadership Lessons that Last a Lifetime
April 5, 2008
Look at children playing together in any playground or classroom setting. Some find comfort and joy on their own, and other guide their playmates in team-based activities.
This innocent environment uncovers, at an early age, who will lead, who will follow, and which children will march to their own tune. But this young interaction is not an absolute indication of future status.
I was fiercely independent in kindergarten, not needing playmates to satisfy my curiosity. Things changed 10 years later. My high school gym class was separated into two teams. We raced against each other to win bragging rights.
After watching the first race, I assessed weaknesses on the opposing team and shared the news with teammates. That strategy gave us the winning edge, and we claimed the trophy.
Although my strengths serve my individual needs, I’m always ready to set up to team leader status. College students, entrepreneurs, and employees must also learn to balance both sides, and there are plenty of opportunities for this at work and in social environments.
Convincing others to listen and act on your words takes confidence and compassion.
Iron-fisted individuals need not apply. Your mission is to convince team members that you have the wisdom to get them to the goal line, even if this is your first time at the top.
Remember these three leadership traits.
- The manner in which you conduct yourself in front of others is key to winning their trust.
- Successful completion of independent tasks helps to elevate your leadership potential.
- Giving up is never an option. Leaders always find or inspire others to develop an alternative method to get the job done.
This lesson is an excerpt from my keynote presentation, 10 Leadership Skills that Build Success in College and Life. Audiences leave the event with a clear understanding of how to mold and strengthen their own leadership styles to motivate teams in every environment.
Email AVG Talent Management through the contact form to bring this inspiring message to your students. Ask me about free copies of my book, Smart Students’ Guide to…Leadership Lessons that Last a Lifetime, when I speak at your school.
[tags]leadership lessons, college success[/tags]
