The Importance of a Willingness to Learn in College: A Personal Story and Reflection
Title: The Power of Willingness to Learn: A College Success Story
Emily Zurek Small’s journey through college serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of a simple willingness to learn. Growing up in a small town in northeastern Pennsylvania, Emily had big dreams and ambitions that she knew could only be achieved through higher education. She enrolled in a small Catholic college, majored in neuroscience, and became the first person in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree, followed by a master’s. Today, she works as a school psychologist in Virginia, a testament to the power of education to change lives.
As a former professor who taught Emily in theology classes, the author of the article witnessed firsthand her dedication to learning. What set Emily apart was not just her academic ability, but her genuine curiosity and engagement with the material. She understood the value of her education and the importance of making the most of it. For her, learning was not just a means to an end, but a pathway to personal growth and self-discovery.
In a time when universities are facing declining enrollment and grappling with the challenges of remote learning, Emily’s story offers a valuable lesson. The key to success in college, as she exemplifies, lies in a willingness to learn and an open-minded approach to new knowledge. Despite economic and cultural obstacles that often prioritize careerism and knowingness over genuine curiosity, Emily’s story shows that a true passion for learning can lead to incredible opportunities and personal growth.
As we navigate the changing landscape of higher education, it is essential to remember the intrinsic value of learning for learning’s sake. College is not just about job training or acquiring knowledge; it is about expanding our minds, challenging our assumptions, and exploring the world around us. By fostering a culture of curiosity and a growth mindset, schools and parents can help students like Emily unlock the full potential of their college experience.
Emily Zurek Small’s journey is a reminder that the true value of education lies not just in the outcomes it produces, but in the transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth that it offers. As she continues to explore what lies beyond the door of graduation, her story serves as an inspiration to all students embarking on their own educational journeys.