Five Conceptual Tools to Help You Win in the First Year of College
College orientation is a time filled with excitement and anticipation. A student’s first year experience is crucial as one faces the challenging tasks of adjusting to college life and overcoming obstacles. Chad Crittenden has had similar experiences and knows a few things about charting a course to success and confidence.
After losing his foot to cancer and then competing on CBS’ hit reality show Survivor, Chad developed his First Year Experience program, Getting Off on the Right Foot, from his unique mastery of the mental strength it takes to overcome obstacles.
After overcoming a very real and deadly diagnosis of Sarcoma cancer, as well as the resulting amputation of his right foot, Chad developed Five Conceptual Tools, to help him overcome what seemed to be unsurmountable barriers in his life. He shares these conceptual tools with students so that they may be equipped to enter their first year of college head-first with the determination to succeed.
Tool #1: Steps: the strategy of setting goals and achieving these goals incrementally. By breaking down a seemingly insurmountable goal into a series of smaller, more easily attainable goals will help you get there intact.
Tool #2: Circumstances address the idea that although you are not in control of the initial circumstances that affect us, take these circumstances and mold them to your liking. You can then take control and make decisions, which will affect our future.
Tool #3: Optimism is by far the most far-reaching and tangible tool, which stresses that a positive attitude and optimistic thinking are the keys to getting out of almost any jam. Chad faced depression during his recovery while he learned how to walk again and faced the idea that he was now disabled. With the right mental perspective, you can overcome anything.
Tool #4: Risk is about stepping outside of your comfort zone in life in order to move ahead and achieve. One example Chad uses is the idea of raising your hand and asserting yourself within the first few days of class of a new semester. Although it may be stepping outside your comfort zone, it pays huge dividends, as you are more engaged, you get to know your professor better, and this leads to a host of academic advantages.
Tool #5: Experience is conveyed in an abstract sense. Chad stresses living for the “now” instead of being anxious about what the future holds. Truly appreciating the present can give you a sense of pride and well-being.
Through the years, Chad has received great praise for helping inspire others through positive thinking and strong self-esteem. Bringing Chad to your campus will help prepare your students for the exciting challenges ahead.
Check out www.campuspeak.com/crittenden to learn more about Chad and his keynotes.
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