Thinking about Going to College
In this learning module, we will explore the idea of going to college and some of the thinking or planning that is associated with this idea. There are three basic resources that will help you learning about this topic.
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Video: Watch a video by members of the MyCircleofChampions team. The short video discusses the topic at a general level.
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Frequent Questions: Look at the most common questions associated with this topic. Choose those that are interesting to you and read the summary answers.
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Champion Discussion Ideas: Explore a few ideas on how you might initiate a discussion with your student and the other Champions in your Circle.
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Student Discussion Ideas: Explore a few ideas on how you might initiate a discussion with your Champions and engage the entire Circle.
Video
Champion Discussion Ideas
Remember how critical your role as a Champion is in the life of your student. First-generation college students in particular need this kind of support. Whether your support is emotional, financial, practical, or academic, it can literally make the difference between college success and failure. Reaching out to discuss their journey on a regular basis has a bigger impact than you may realize. Below are a few ideas to stimilate conversation with your entire Circle.
Champion Support
Ask your student what support they will need from the Champions in their Circle. Discuss the kinds of support Champions might extend.
Frequent Questions
Choose one of the frequent question topics below that interests you. Frame it as a question for your student and the other Champions.
Your Decision
Ask you student why they decided to go to college. Respond with support and curiosity about their reasoning.
Student Discussion Ideas
First-generation college students often face unique challenges in discussing college with their support systems, especially when their Champions (family and friends) may not have firsthand experience with higher education. With that said, your Champions may have some thoughtful insights and can help support you, even if they did not attend college themselves. Below are a few ideas on how you might initiate a conversation on this topic with your Champions.
Your "Why"
Tell your Champions why you are going to college--explain "Your Why". Ask them what they think about this idea.
Concerns
Describe your biggest concerns with regarding to attending college. Ask them how they have approached big concerns in their own lives.
Surprise
What about college has been most surprising or exciting to you so far? Ask your Champions if that surprises them as well.
Frequently Asked Questions