While stressing during finals week, multiple thoughts probably strolled through your mind: “Do I really need to go to college? Would it be bad if I watch just one more episode? Why did I even take this class?!” You might even have reminisced about your experience as a high school student, perhaps even younger. Having now completed my first semester in college I’ve found new perspectives on almost all areas of my life. By visiting some of the schools that first shaped me. I am able to not only see my growth, but also that of my peers.

As we all know not every every path after high school is the same, therefore the experiences of those we know won’t be as well. Speaking to a college student that commutes, one that attends a two year institution, another that lives on campus, one more attending a HBCU, one other attending a PWI, one in trade school and another in the military will bring various perspectives on life outside of the bubble that is high school. Their experiences are all unique yet you might see similarities administratively. By having these discussions, you might see just how good or bad you have it and possibly just how normal things are.

There’s also an “A-HA!” element to this. Remember when your counselor told you to continue taking AP Calculus even though you felt like you lost all will to survive? I won’t say any names specifically, but let’s just say we’ve all been there. Actually attending college, you see just how having these rigorous classes as a part of your schedule truly helps. You might here an “I told you so” here and there, but don’t forget to follow with a humble thank you.

Lastly, you know you. I’m sure you had students that were pursuing a post-secondary education, or those that have done so, come and speak with you regarding your options and what to look out for. After hearing the same rhetoric over and over again perhaps the high school junior/ sophomore in you began to tone them out. Having now been a part of the process you now know exactly what to tell that high school student that you once were. When visiting the school of years past be sure to speak to students who are in the same boat you were in once. There’s nothing like help from someone who gets it.

While You enjoy the holidays with family and friends I hope you take time to reflect with those who became family by chance. Happy Holidays!