Choose to Succeed In College and In Life: Continuously Improve, Persevere, and Enjoy the Journey (in English)
Synopsis "Choose to Succeed In College and In Life: Continuously Improve, Persevere, and Enjoy the Journey (in English)"
Sam, a college sophomore, sat in my Business Law class with his eyes cast downward. He yawned occasionally. Never really paying attention to the class discussion, he took no notes and chose not to participate. Even when called upon, he simply said: "I do not know." Sam never spoke to others, either before or after class, an indication of possible shyness. This went on for a few classes. "Sam, why are you here?" I asked after class. Sam looked perplexed. I became more specific, asking: "Sam, why are you here at college?" To his credit, Sam sat and reflected. He then replied, "To get a good job." I asked, "Do you think you are on the path to getting a good job?" Sam reflected again and then replied, "No. My grades are not too good. I'll probably graduate with my college degree. But I don't imagine many employers will take a look at me." I inquired, "Why is that, Sam? What are you lacking, other than good grades, which would deter you from finding a good job after you graduate?" Sam hesitated. His face turned downward. After I while, he answered, "I'm really don't think I'm all that attractive. I don't socialize very much. I'm not great at math. I'm a poor writer." I leaned forward, waited until Sam looked at me in the eyes, and said: "Sam, great things happen in life to great people. Are you willing to become a great person?" Sam lowered his head. I continued, "Sam, can you commit to give me an extra two hours a week of your time for the next ten weeks? During this time you will be discovering all about yourself and your capabilities." Sam hesitated. "I think so." "Let's make a deal," I said. "If you give me 20 hours of your time, over the next ten weeks, I promise you that you will become a much better person and that you will learn the secrets to success. As a result, you will do much better in college." Sam began his process of discovery. Over the next 10 weeks we met weekly to review his progress and discuss what he was learning and how he was changing. At Sam's graduation, several years later, I reflected as Sam crossed the stage to receive his diploma. Sam, once shy, had gained confidence and a positive attitude. He became more personable. He entered into deep, meaningful relationships with a host of new friends. He participated in a few clubs and organizations on campus and he acquired a leadership position in one of them. His grade point average had soared. And Sam had secured a great first job in his industry, full of opportunity, with a large firm. From Sam I had received this hand-written thank you note toward the end of his 10-week journey: "Today, as a last entry into my gratitude journal for this assignment (I will keep writing in one in the future as well), I would like to say that I am grateful to have Professor Rhoades as an instructor this semester. I really have learned a lot about life in general. He is a little less lenient than most professors, and he expects your best effort and gives great tips to succeed. I have learned to follow my dreams, expand my comfort zone, network with others, have fun, and above all else work even harder in life, even more from having him as my Business Law professor. I feel like it was destiny to be enrolled in his class. Thank you for everything so far this semester Professor Rhoades!" In readings, links to videos, and through carefully constructed exercises, over the course of 10 weeks you can transform yourself and grow in ways you never thought possible. As this book suggests, while the acquisition of technical knowledge in your chosen career field is important, vastly more important to your success in all aspects of your life is the personal enrichment you will find in these pages. Can you commit approximately two hours a week each week for 10 weeks? Are you ready to become a much better person, and to lay the foundations for greater success in college and in all aspects of your life? If you can make such a commitment, read on!
