18
In this chapter you learned about the book’s key themes: the importance of college, self-awareness, thinking positively, and recognizing your own strengths and weaknesses. You also saw how these themes connect to one other and to your college and career success. Revisit the following points and reflect on how this information can support your success now and in the future.
College is important. You’re at the right place at the right time. By getting your degree or certificate, you’ll have more career options, earn more money, and be more likely to get involved in your community.
Critical thinking involves considering information in a thoughtful way, understanding how to think logically and rationally, and applying those methods of thinking in your classes and your life.
Thinking critically will help you succeed academically, as you analyze information, respond to questions on exams, and write papers.
Personal reflection is a type of critical thinking. By reflecting on your values and interests, you can use the resulting self-knowledge to set goals that are personally meaningful, and you can stay motivated to achieve them.
According to positive psychology, when things don’t go your way, you can maintain a positive attitude by reframing negative results as opportunities for improvement. Four key ingredients of positive psychology are self-efficacy, resilience, a sense of hope, and a willingness to take personal responsibility.
You’re your own success coach — it’s up to you to identify the skills you have and those you need to develop. Use every opportunity to play to your strengths while also addressing your weaknesses.
Many resources are available to help you meet your goals. You can seek help from family, friends, instructors, and support services on campus and in your community.
There’s more to college than learning class material. You’ll also develop transferable skills and attitudes that you can apply in whatever career you choose. Succeeding at school is directly connected to succeeding in your work life.