A 2011 RESOLUTION FOR SCHOOL

With the upcoming New Year approaching, I wanted to take the time first of all to say "Happy New Year" to all my students, but also to talk about a NEW RESOLUTION FOR 2011.  Lets approach 2011 with a different attitude toward school.  I am talking about committment.  Many of my students are adult students returning back to the school environment, but they are carrying with them the baggage and responsibilities that go with being an adult (i.e. work, family, finances).  With this changing economy (and not to the good) students are going back to school with the hopes of finding a better job, or just a job period due to a layoff.  They are in a hurry to "GET EDUCATED" so they can get that job.  Remember, going back to school is not a guarantee of a job when you get out.  Pick a major that will employ.  Do your research before you pick that major.  Also, remember that going back to school is not a quick fix to your financial problems, it will in fact, add more financial burdon temporarily, but the outcome will bring you financial freedom if you GO THE DISTANCE.  Do not be in such a hurry.  Remember the idea is to get an education that will land you that job not just to take classes and walk out with a piece of paper.  The problem is that students are in such a hurry to get that piece of paper, they make bad choices along the way and end up either getting frustrated and dropping out of school or their school taking longer than they thought because they have to keep repeating classes.  PLAN to take only what you can take on successfully.  In the long run, you will get done faster.  TRUST ME, I see it all the time.  As far as COMMITTMENT, you have to be willing to sacrifice certain things as an adult student to obtain your goal.  If you are a Nursing Student at MTC, you will definitely have to learn how to balance your life as a student and family.   You can not get through that program if you are not committed to it.  It is OK if you are not in the situation to make that commitment, then pick a less demanding major.  BE REALISTIC in what you want to accomplish and look at what personal demands are in your life.  Be sure you can successfully do both.  Never, ever be afraid to ask people for help.  I hope that everyone will have a successful 2011.  Plan well, study hard, be willing to sacrifice and you will succeed.