Dr. J's message for Nov. 1-7, 2009
Let's talk about Great Expectations. Not the Dickens novel, though Pip's struggles to elevate himself to gentleman status might have some relevance, but your expectations, other people's expectations of you, and how to manage them. As I interact with students I see expectations play out in good and not-so-good ways, particularly as related to life goals.
On one hand, we (the university, your family, your high school teachers) have let you know that you are smart and talented and can achieve whatever you put your mind to. You have been taught to dream and that dreams can come true if you want it enough and work hard enough. That attitude can take you far, and I'm not discouraging hard work, belief and perseverance. Believing in yourself is an important step to success in any field.
On the other hand, you know that confidence alone is not enough. All of us have some limits, and we are not always in control of all the forces that affect our lives. You know that wishing, and even working very hard, will not ensure that there are no disappointments. Sometimes when you are disappointed you may feel crushed and even angry that your expectations are not met. You may be at a loss for the next step when your academic achievement does not seem to support the career you had in mind, or when it turns out that a field is not really as interesting to you as you had expected, or when you are not chosen for a particular award or internship.
Fortunately, you're in a great place for setting and reaching goals that are challenging, as well as satisfying to you. With the vast array of academic course offerings and the numerous support services at Ohio State, you have resources to explore many options. Career Connection is a great place to start assessing your expectations.
In the words of the Rolling Stones: "You can't always get what you want. But if you try sometimes you might just get what you need."
Dr. J
Javaune Adams-Gaston, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Life
vicepresident@studentlife.osu.edu
Contact:
Ruth Gerstner
614-292-8424
gerstner.2@osu.edu