“Children are likely to live up to what you believe in them.”

–Lady Bird Johnson

 

I believe First Lady Johnson was correct: children have the ability to become anything and will often live up to what you expect of them. For some students today, expectations are low and thus, easily met. They need someone to champion them. After working with individuals of all ages and capabilities, I now believe that everyone has something special about them, and the ability to achieve. It is my job to find it and cultivate it.

 

Students today are growing up in an incredibly complex world, where they are being bombarded with messages (good and bad) from all directions. Some may not have anyone to come tell them that they are special and that they can be anything they want to be. Some students may have been told that they will never amount to anything. Others face roadblocks in every direction based on gender, race, or ability. And others will be overcome from anxiety because the pressures put on them is immense. As a school counselor, I will be in a position to be the encourager, the believer, the helping hand, the safe space, and the unconditional support. I will be uniquely positioned to be a source of positivity in the lives of my students. My goal is to be that daily dose of positivity and encouragement for my students.

 

In addition to empowering students, I also hope to be a key contributor to a collaborative team that strives to create a safe environment for all students to learn and grow academically, socially, and emotionally. My goal is to be an advocate, both in the school and the community, for the needs of all. 

 

My motivation comes from my belief that every student, every individual, is unique and capable of greatness. I hope to use my own personal motivation to engage with others in the school, and in turn, positively impact the students. Everyone needs a little inspiration, and I hope to be that inspiration for many.