Why Some Students Grow Faster Than Others in College
Have you ever observed the difference between students at the same university that have developed faster than others?
They take the same classes, See the same professors, and use identical resources; yet the contrast between these two individuals is apparent.
Many of the rapidly growing student's abilities are improving with regards to confidence, focus, and overall clarity of their future. Meanwhile, the slower growing student's ability to grow is limited due to their confusion, exhilaration by simply "going with the flow."
So, what causes these differences?
It’s Not Just About Intelligence:
One assumption made is that as a person improves, their level of intelligence is going to have the greatest impact. While this is true, there are more important factors at play when considering growth that occurs at college.
In college, growth may not necessarily be indicated by grades but may instead be based upon how effectively each student uses their time and surroundings throughout the course of study.
Some actively participate in discussions
Some take risks/substantiate their experience
Some try to improve the person as an individual rather than solely focus on passing
While other students merely show up for class and leave.
This subtle difference in "effort" or approach adds up to create a large difference between the growth experienced by these two students over time.
The Relevance of Your Surroundings:
One of the major influences on how well you perform — yet it's hardly ever noticed — is the environment around you.
Being in a noisy or competitive work environment or one that requires a lot of mental energy will prevent you from achieving the level of performance that you could if you were in a suitable environment.
If you have an environment that is calm and supportive, then you can:
Focus on what you want to accomplish at your best
Make time to develop your skills
Have a clear picture of what you want to do with your life
At your own pace develop into who you want to be, without pressure
Often, it isn't the student; it's the student in an environment that's impacting the journey.
Consistency Beats Everything:
Students who achieve their goals quicker do not do anything more unique or different than anyone else.
They are consistent with their actions:
Arriving at school every day and being focused
Going beyond their books and syllabus
Using time to improve themselves
Staying away from distractions
Although these habits do not seem large on their own, over time and through repetition, they become extremely significant.
Students who proceed rapidly often do so because they don’t wait until conditions are “ideal.”
They begin to investigate early on, attempt new things and develop from their experiences.
While many other students continue to wait for the “right moment” or the “best plan,” therefore delaying their advancement.
To summarize, there is nothing fortuitous about one’s advancement in college; it is the result of a combination of your attitude, behaviour and place of association.
Attending a school that supports a balance between your academic/ professional pursuits and your personal development will simplify this process.
Therefore selecting a higher education institution that is committed to preparing students not only for a career, but also for overall personal growth, is imperative. At Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ramayana Vishwavidyalaya (MMYRV), we have made progress in creating an environment conducive for students to develop, learn and advance with clarity of purpose.