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Student Development Theories

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Successful college experiences revolve around three major areas: the transition, being successful in classes/schoolwork, and involvement. These three areas have been determined from my work in the Housing and Residential Programs Department for the past three years, as this is my first lass focusing on student development theories. The three areas are must all be present in some way, shape, or form in order for success. The first step is the transition from high school to college. This is inclusive of moving away from home, and entering into an entirely different miniature society. Incoming students need to learn to adapt to their new surroundings, develop relationships, and a find their support system. Adaptation is important, for many …show more content…

It allows students to feel like a part of the college, as if the belong. Once a feeling of belonging has been established, it will become harder to leave, to give up or dropout. All three of these areas are relatable to adaptability, motivation, and being in tune with your feelings. Adaptability in the transition stage is crucial, for students are able to begin growing into an adult. They must learn how to get out of bed and attend class, do their own laundry, and maybe even start paying bills. Professors are less likely to hold their hands or bump up their grades, it is crucial to learn how to study and take notes, and relationships have to form. Motivation is also key. Students are less likely to have parents act as their cheerleader and daily reminder that there is always homework to do or an upcoming test. Motivation arises in areas outside the classroom as well, for many students being neglecting their bodies by stopping their daily mandated exercise, known as gym class, and eating too much in the cafeteria. This leads students to develop skills is time management, organization, and self-control. All of these skills lead to an individual becoming more in touch with their feelings, finding their true wants, needs, and …show more content…

Failing a quiz, test, or even a class bring reality into their line of sight. It helps them to learn that it is time to become responsible, and that it is time to take the steps to become an adult. Every student will fail in some way, it is inevitable. I am not saying it is an impending doom, but it will happen. It might not mean failing a class, but can be growing a part in a friendship, putting on that freshman fifteen, compromising your morals, or hitting the snooze button one too many times. Everyone will fail in different ways, but most will find a valuable lesson to

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