Using Appreciative Questions to Prepare Your Freshman for College
A friend is taking her daughter to university for the first time. My friend's alma mater. (I also graduated from the same school). I've been watching their journey, from afar, with keen interest. I’m thrilled and excited by the opportunities the young lady will encounter and I’m eager to hear of her successes.
The university has grown tremendously over the years, so much so, I recognize only a handful of buildings from my time there. However, the DNA of the school is intact and it remains a space to grow and learn and embrace adulthood.
Embarking on the journey of college life is an exciting and transformative experience for any freshman. As a parent, guardian or friend, you play a vital role in guiding them through this important transition. By adopting the principles of Appreciative Inquiry (AI), you can create a positive and empowering environment that sets the stage for a successful college adventure. In this blog, we'll explore how you can use Appreciative questions to prepare and support a freshman as they step into this new chapter of their life.
Understanding Appreciative Inquiry
Appreciative Inquiry is a philosophy and approach that focuses on exploring and enhancing the positive aspects of a situation. By framing conversations around strengths and positive experiences, you can empower your freshmen to find and embrace opportunities with confidence.
Appreciative questions to prepare your freshman
As you engage in conversations with your college-bound student, consider using some or all of these Appreciative questions to foster a positive mindset and help them to thrive.
1. Reflecting on high school, what academic or extracurricular achievement are you most proud of? What strengths did you use to accomplish it?
2. Think about the subjects or topics that genuinely interest you. How can you explore these passions further in college?
3. Imagine your ideal college experience. What kind of relationships, activities, and learning opportunities would you like to be part of?
4. What strategies have helped you to manage stress and maintain a healthy school-life balance? How can you continue applying them while in college?
5. What's one goal you'd like to achieve during your freshman year? How can you break it down into smaller steps to be successful?
Benefits of using Appreciative questions
Asking Appreciative questions helps a young person to think about their college plans based on the successes they have had in the past. Helps them to recognize the components of that success and then apply them to how they can show up during their first year.
Being a Freshman is an exciting time for your student. In many cases, they will be living away from home for their first time. They will embrace many firsts:
- New classes and subjects;
- New friends; and
- New learning and social opportunities.
Asking Appreciative question builds confidence and focuses on strengths and instills a sense of self-assuredness. Appreciative conversations strengthen communication and encourage open dialogue, creating a safe space for your student to express their thoughts and concerns.
Conclusion
As a parent or friend, your support is invaluable as your freshman steps into the world of higher education. Using Appreciative questions allows you to guide them with positivity and a growth-oriented mindset.
By acknowledging their strengths, celebrating their achievements, and fostering curiosity for new experiences, you are equipping them to thrive during this transformative journey.
As you prepare them for college, remember that your role goes beyond logistics—you have the power to inspire them to embrace their potential, navigate challenges, and make the most of their college years.
My advice for all college students: be safe, study hard, have fun.
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