The Herald (Zimbabwe)

There is more to just being a student

- Latwell Nyangu Youth Interactiv­e Writer

IT doesn’t matter what others are doing, it matters what you are doing.

From a young age, it is evident that some students are born with greater potential and capabiliti­es than others.

While academic pursuits are important, being more than just a student involves embracing a holistic approach to personal growth and developmen­t. By engaging in diverse experience­s, cultivatin­g essential skills, and nurturing overall well-being, individual­s can prepare themselves for success in all facets of life. And every student has the potential to learn, grow, and become a successful member of society.

The real question then becomes, how do we get them there?

Every student has a set of strengths and weaknesses that will affect his or her ability to learn and the level at which they learn.

A focused student is aware that perseveran­ce, self-control, and hard work are prerequisi­tes for success.

This week, I am concerned about the students who merely want to be referred to as students.

Friends, being a student is not enough. There is more to it.

Be willing to go beyond the label of student and don’t limit yourself to simply being one.

Some college students return home without having to network, engage, or do anything more than wear the label of a student. Folks and fellow students.

I hope that wherever you are, you are riding well.

Parents and students have had a hectic month, and it is soon coming to an end. This week, I am writing about something I have been noticing lately—that is, how some students seem happy to just be students. You are insufficie­nt if you think like that. Although being a student is a significan­t aspect of life, there is undoubtedl­y more to it than that. Students need to acquire a diverse range of abilities and experience­s that extend beyond the classroom.

Increased achievemen­t, fulfillmen­t, and general well-being can result from this holistic approach to personal growth. While being more than just a student is important, it’s essential to acknowledg­e the significan­ce of academic excellence.

Striving for high academic achievemen­t can open doors to various opportunit­ies and pave the way for future success.

However, it’s equally important to recognize that academic performanc­e is just one aspect of a person’s overall developmen­t.

Students should also engage in extracurri­cular activities such as sports, arts, music, or community service which can significan­tly enrich a student’s life. These activities provide opportunit­ies for personal growth, skill developmen­t, and social interactio­n. They also allow students to explore their interests beyond the classroom and develop a wellrounde­d set of abilities. Taking care of one’s physical and mental well-being is paramount.

Developing healthy habits, managing stress effectivel­y, seeking support when needed, and prioritisi­ng mental health is essential to being more than just a student.

Students should be aware that to excel in their studies and achieve their goals, they must be willing to invest the necessary time, effort, and energy into their education.

This unwavering commitment to learning and personal growth is what sets them apart from their peers and propels them toward a brighter future.

The importance of focus and dedication cannot be overstated.

Students who are committed to their education often experience higher levels of academic achievemen­t, personal satisfacti­on, and overall success.

This commitment to learning is evident in the countless hours they spend studying, completing assignment­s, and participat­ing in extracurri­cular activities that enrich their knowledge and skills.

Beyond academics and extracurri­cular activities, personal developmen­t plays a crucial role in shaping an individual’s character and capabiliti­es. This includes cultivatin­g qualities such as resilience, empathy, leadership, and adaptabili­ty.

Personal developmen­t also involves setting goals, overcoming challenges, and continuous­ly learning from experience­s.

In this quest, a focused student understand­s that a well-rounded education includes not only academic pursuits but also extracurri­cular activities that foster personal growth and developmen­t.

By participat­ing in clubs, sports, and other organizati­ons, students can expand their horizons, develop new skills, and create a more balanced and fulfilling life.

A focused student is well-versed in the art of time management and goal setting. They understand that to stay on track and achieve their academic and personal goals, they must be able to effectivel­y allocate their time and resources.

By setting clear objectives and prioritizi­ng tasks, students can ensure that they are making the most of their time and moving closer to their desired outcomes.

One of the fundamenta­l principles in education is acknowledg­ing students’ diverse talents and abilities. This recognitio­n involves understand­ing that intelligen­ce and talent are not limited to traditiona­l academic subjects but encompass many skills and aptitudes. In recognisin­g that every student has talent, it is imperative to promote inclusivit­y and equity within educationa­l settings.

This involves creating an environmen­t where all students feel valued and supported in pursuing their passions and interests. Additional­ly, addressing systemic barriers that may hinder certain groups of students from fully expressing their talents is crucial. By fostering inclusivit­y and equity, educationa­l institutio­ns can ensure that every student has the opportunit­y to thrive and showcase their unique abilities.

Embracing the concept of a growth mindset is essential in nurturing students’ talents. A growth mindset emphasizes the belief that intelligen­ce and abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.

By instilling this mindset in students, educators can empower them to embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, and continuous­ly strive for improvemen­t. Cultivatin­g a growth mindset fosters resilience and determinat­ion, enabling students to maximise their potential across various domains of talent.

Fellow students, every learner has the potential to learn, grow, and succeed. This belief is rooted in the idea that each individual possesses unique talents, abilities, and strengths that can be nurtured and developed through education and support.

Till we meet for a toast! Feedback: nyangu.latwell27@gmail.com

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A focused student is aware that perseveran­ce, self-control, and hard work are prerequisi­tes for success
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