Category: Student Focus

These blog posts are focused on empowering students.

The New Freedoms of College Arise From Good Decision Making and Self-Discipline

By Jane Taylor | July 12, 2023 | Outcomes,Student Focus

First-year college students know their life is about to change, but generally have little experience upon which to base expectations for their new life. They crave freedom and differentiation from their parents, which makes sense developmentally as they reach the age of majority, but may not understand what this means on a day-to-day, operational basis.

We joke about “adulting,” but few first-years have any idea what that means. (Season Two of our podcast

The Importance of Infusing a Career Mindset into the Collegiate Experience

By Jane Taylor | May 4, 2023 | Outcomes,Student Focus

Some students go to college knowing exactly what they want to do. But most don’t. Faced with a continuously growing number of choices, students must select their academic major from among hundreds of options. For them, it can feel like a blindfolded game of darts. But adopting a career mindset early in the collegiate experience takes the blindfold off and helps narrow down the wide world of possibilities. Looking for colleges that prioritize career development,

Now That You’ve Been Accepted to College

By Jane Taylor | January 17, 2023 | Outcomes,Student Focus

After making such a concentrated effort writing your essays, getting letters of recommendation, and applying to colleges, there are few things more exciting than reading the acceptance letter to your “reach” school. While it is just the beginning of an experience that will very likely change your life, acceptance is a great achievement. Congratulations! You got in. You’re on your way to college.

It is not uncommon for that thrilling, made-the-grade exuberance to be followed by self-doubt.

How to Set Yourself Up for Success Spring Semester

By Jane Taylor | January 4, 2023 | Outcomes,Student Focus

Now that you’ve completed your first semester of college, you know first-hand that success doesn’t happen automatically. It takes determination, hard work, and especially planning. Self-advocacy and good planning in the three main areas of academics, social life, and life balance will set you up for success this Spring.

Academics

Your academic life is one of the most important aspects of college. Take these simple steps to ensure that you are giving yourself the greatest possible advantage.

Using Add/Drop to Make Space for College Success

By Jane Taylor | January 3, 2023 | Outcomes,Student Focus

There is no simple answer to the question, “How many classes should I take each semester?” The number you take depends upon several factors beyond your aptitude and the course level of difficulty. A learning difference adds even more complexity to the equation.

We often recommend that students take a lighter course load because those who learn differently must pay attention to and make adjustments for their difference—which usually translates to factoring in more time.

Where are They Now? Part Two. Amelia Teta, Student

By Jane Taylor | October 17, 2022 | Outcomes,Student Focus

Tell me about yourself.
I am a very busy student at Lesley University. I live in an apartment with my girlfriend and our cat, Stormy. I will be graduating in May with a degree in children, youth, and family studies. I am in the honors program; I am on the softball team where I act as team manager. I keep stats, run practices, and make sure everybody is where they need to be.

What is College Readiness Anyway?

By Jane Taylor | October 7, 2021 | Executive Function,Student Focus

The term college readiness often tops Google trends just as rising high school seniors contemplate their next step.

Using Disruption to Create Positive Change

By Jane Taylor | August 11, 2020 | Coaching and Support,Student Focus

Pattern disruption has long been a recognized method for creating positive change. The Socrates character in Dan Millman’s Way of the Peaceful Warrior puts it this way: “You have many habits that weaken you.

Building Resilience: How do we do it?

By Jane Taylor | July 27, 2020 | Coaching and Support,Student Focus

Resilience is the ability to adapt and thrive despite adversity. We all need it. The pandemic was a global demonstration of our need for resilience.

On-Boarding for Student and Parent Comfortability

By Jane Taylor | June 25, 2020 | Coaching and Support,Student Focus

Comfortability starts with strong relationships. We foster them not just with our students, but with their families. From the moment a student signs up, they become part of our family. Read More...