A message to students

From Mr. Damron

Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make.  In today’s world, a college education is more important than ever.  Most of the desirable careers in the 21st century will require at least a bachelor’s degree, with many occupations requiring an advanced degree.

Here are three important things to remember

1. HOW you choose a college is as important as WHERE you choose.  For many students, college will be their new “home” for four or more years.  Selecting an appropriate institution is not easy, and should not be made without considerable research and reflection.  It is important to get as much accurate information as you possibly can.  Each institution has its own character and personality, just like you do; the key is to try to make them match.

2. Choose wisely, but make your own decision.  Make an informed decision based on what is right for YOU, not based on what friends or relatives do or have done. Where can YOU be the most successful?  College costs continue to escalate, so it doesn’t make sense to throw money down the drain because of a poor decision.

3. Work with your counselor.  I am committed to helping you on your journey to college and your future.  I am here to help you do research, answer questions, and give advice.  If you develop an interest in a particular institution, let me know and I will facilitate your getting information.  We have a number of college representatives who visit Lyman Ward each year.  Attend those sessions and have an open mind about the institutions they represent.

“Applying to college is a process of decision-making.  Although I would not agree with those who say that where you go to college is the most important decision you will ever make, I would agree it is one of the most important.  College is more than the courses you take; it is the career preparation you receive, the friends you make, the interests you develop, and the memories you will keep for the rest of your life.

“For most people, going to college coincides with a period of self-development, between the ages of 18 and 22, when they are learning about their own ability to interrelate, to push their intellects, and to develop their independence and self-reliance as mature, young adults.  This activity, therefore, cannot be isolated from personal growth and development as a total social and intellectual person.  Applying to college, as well as being an exercise in learning how to make decisions, is an important process of self-realization – a period of learning about oneself.”  -- Frank C. Leana, Getting Into College