The video of the students within the Achiever’s Academy at Concord High School was informative as well as uplifting. Because I will be spending a lot of time working with the students in the Achiever’s Academy, I was curious to see what the program entailed. I wanted to know what kind of students we would be working with, how I would relate to them, and do my best to help them further their goals and dreams. I was impressed to hear the student’s insights: to hear their own definitions of the word “achiever,” and what success means to them. Most students, especially the upperclassmen, seem to be very driven, but just might be in the academy because they need a little bit more of a push. I liked the video in particularly because it gave me the opportunity to learn more about the students. I liked hearing about the student’s personal stories as well as their individual goals. In most inner-city high schools, it is common to hear negative stories about the student’s families, and it was a breath of fresh air to hear how a mother-son relationship could be so strong. One student in particular, who was studying to be a fashion designer, claimed his mother was his best friend. Hearing the advice she gave him, helped him shape his definition of the word “achiever” and I think it is up to my fellow classmates and I to install positive influence in the students who aren’t so fortunate at home. I am excited to meet these students in person, and see how I could assist them.
The speaker did an excellent job because it was someone they seemed to look up to and respect. She knew the ropes, had that been there done that mentality, which made it easier for the students to relate to her. They seemed interested to hear her own insight and as a result had no problem opening up to her. They knew she could relate to them, and i believe the informal teaching arrangement made it easier for the students to relate her story to their own.
As far as becoming achievers’ is concerned, I think the program is definitely pushing the students in the right direction. Just by observing their interaction during the video, I could infer that the students have various excellent methods to becoming an achiever. A couple of those are as follows. One student suggested that networking could really help him get to where he needs to go, and that it is important to profile yourself as professional when doing so. Another student analyzed the speaker’s quote “Don’t accept being stuck” as don’t settle for anything less than you deserve. The students then engaged themselves in a conversation and decided to never accept limitations no matter what struggles they may face.
When the speaker admitted she became an achiever once she started to take life seriously, I immediately thought of the students. Just by enrolling themselves into this program, they have decided to work towards a brighter future. I see potential in each and everyone of these students. I am excited to work with them, and I can not wait to see what they have accomplished when they have graduated from the program.
