DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.

Dear Journal,

 

The last week for the first round of success coaching sessions just passed...but this is still only the beginning. There is a lot of work ahead of me. Am I ready?

 

Yes.

~

This past week I reached out to the professor I am currently working with in regards to early student intervention. Forms were sent out digitally to all professors working with the SASP team. I contacted my professor via email because I noticed no information was relayed to me - either explaining that the students were doing fine or if some appeared to be struggling. She disclosed to me that she was only concerned about one student who hadn't attended class within the last few weeks, all the while only submitting one assignment (that being the first). My strategy was to immediately email the student asking if everything was okay because I had noticed he hadn't been attending class. However, despite my effort to get in touch with him that way, I received no response. I will be reaching out to him again on October 2nd via email, but instead I'll be using his personal email. If I am still without a response by the afternoon of October 3rd, the following Monday, I will call the student. I just want to make sure everything is okay, and I want the student to know I am here for them if they ever need anything.

 

~

 

On a brighter note, I had my final 5 coaching sessions this past week! They all went so incredibly well. I couldn't have asked for a better group of mentees. My first session took place Monday afternoon (9/26). We built a strong bond based on a mutual friend! This resulted in an easier transition, which helped steer the session into a more comfortable conversation. This student plays for John Jay's Men's Soccer team, so I was very appreciative that he scheduled to meet with me during his free time. He is a very determined student, and I loved the enthusiasm and drive he portrayed! He wants to apply to the honors program and, potentially, the BA/MA Program for Criminal Justice BS. He also expressed interest in taking up a minor; however, I explained to him that if he were to apply and get accepted into the BA/MA Program, they typically don't allow students to continue on in their minor; it would need to be dropped. So, he will be keeping all of these possibilities in mind. Additionally, he said he was going to attend the Job & Internship Fair (9/29). We looked at his resume together, and it was quite strong! So, I'm already a proud success coach.

My coaching session with this student was scheduled for 4:30-5pm. It lasted from 4:30-6pm, and we walked to the train together. First mentee to have done that with. It was a great start to the week.

 

My second coaching session was right after my mentees' class on Tuesday (9/27). This student is an aspiring physician's assistant, so he's thinking of changing his major. He currently has an amazing opportunity lined up for this summer at St. John's University that will help him prepare for what lies ahead in his field of interest. When asked about other obligations that he may have now, he told me he is currently holding a job as a medical clerk, and he is also a sales representative for his uncle's Columbian coffee business. We exchanged business cards! Additionally, he told me he's interested in study abroad, so we discussed who to talk to and what courses may be available in the upcoming semesters!

 

My third coaching session was on Tuesday (9/27) as well. She was very excited for the session! She is the student who I encouraged to try out for the rifle team. I asked how tryouts went, and unfortunately, she didn't make the team this year, but she is still determined to make it next year! At the beginning of our session, I tried to find common ground with my mentee; the second I said "Criminal Minds..." FRIENDSHIP!! We ended up spending the whole session looking at Criminal Minds merchandise and discussing the show. We decided on getting matching sweatshirts.

"Oh the sheet, Sam! Don't worry, I'll just fill this out quickly. Uhm, coping with stress? .... Reading and Criminal Minds, duh.."

 

My fourth coaching session was on Thursday (9/29). The student and I already had a strong bond prior to the session. As a Law&Society major, she already visited the Pre-Law Institute! She's doing well in all of her classes; however, she wants to improve her study habits. Her mom is helping her by using SMART Goals!! She establishes a set time for her daughter to finish cetain tasks! My mentee said I'm the reason she hasn't dropped out of college. Initially, I was surprised she said that, but I'm so happy she sees me as a supporter and close friend.

 

My final coaching session was on Friday (9/30). This student is a forensic psychology major, so I told her all about the amazing opportunities John Jay has for psychology majors! She expressed interest in psych research lab opportunities, the BA/MA Program, the Mental Health Counseling Master's Program, and the NAMI Club. So, I provided her with information and recommendations for each! I even offered to attend a NAMI Club meeting with her in order to help her feel a bit more comfortable.

 

Side note: All of my students who came to see me for coaching sessions this past week wanted a monthly calendar in order to better schedule and plan out their tasks!

 

~

 

SASP was behind two events this week: The Inside Scoop and a talk with a NY Times Correspondent. I had a coaching session during the Inside Scoop event, so I was unable to go; however, I did attend the NY Times talk. Though it was informative, it was different compared to what I had expected. I'm pleased to say I am more knowledgeable on the history of voting however.

 

~

 

I begin my outreach to my additional Non-FYS students this upcoming week, and I'm really excited. Can't wait to get started.

 

Until next time,

 

Samantha

DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.