26 ■ SEPTEMBER 14, 2012
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS: A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT
THE BERMUDA SUN
WORDS OF WISDOM: How to get the best out of college Continued from page 21 peeling back the veneer. “Learn stillness. Experiment with new perspectives. “Read what you think might not interest you. Ask questions. “Ultimately deep focus — that is, learning how to take the time to really understand some concept or relationship or motivation — will serve you well not only in your academic life but also your social, financial, and professional life post-graduation.” ■ Ankur Desai, associate professor of atmospheric and oceanic sciences, UW-Madison: “Several years ago, journalist Malcolm Gladwell published a book where he argued that it takes around 10,000 hours of intentional practice to master a skill. “During your time here, you will be in the classroom roughly 1,500 hours and doing course-related homework and projects for roughly twice that. So yes, go to class and engage in the work, but it will only get you halfway there.
Ask questions “There is much going on at UW-Madison to meet the other half. Don’t get overwhelmed, find a few things that appear interesting to you and get involved in them. “Conduct research in labs, write for a periodical, listen to outside speaker seminars, attend a recital, tutor other students. “Most of all, get to know your professors outside of class — face time with your instructors is known to be a key to success in college. “Your first year, you will be exhausted, homesick, confused by coursework, feel like a number in a faceless crowd, perhaps regret a few evenings — these things will pass; focus on where you want to be four years from now. “Only you can do what it takes to be successful, but you’re not the only one
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WHEELS: Don’t forget to lock your bicycle on campus. invested in your success. Don’t be afraid to seek out help!” ■ Bradford Barham, professor of agricultural and applied economics, UW-Madison: “My advice is to connect widely, communicate freely, and collaborate strategically. “Find ways to meet people from around campus, especially those different from you in background and experience. “Ask questions, listen well, and share yourself. There are so many smart and creative people — from all over the world — that can help us learn and grow. “As you identify and refine your interests and passions — academic and others — be selective about whom to collaborate with. Work and play with those that help you to learn, enjoy, and excel. “Sports, cultural activities, clubs, and political groups can also nourish your health, vitality and growth. “You are surrounded by so many opportunities. Go for it. Find your favourite neighbourhoods and people around this diverse campus. Learn from them. Learn with them. Enjoy!” ■ Mike Kent, business instructor, Madison College: “One. You will receive many credit card offers during the school year. Tear
them up. Those companies are trying to help themselves, not you. The younger you are when you learn about compound interest, the better off you’ll be. “Two. If you don’t lock up your bike on campus, it will be stolen. Not may be, will be. “Three. If you want to understand the value of education, learn about two concepts: Bounded Rationality and Cognitive Behaviourism. “Four. You should have a personal motto that reflects the best of you... and it should be in Latin, because mottos are cooler in Latin.” ■ Denis Collins, professor of management, Edgewood College: “You are a one-of-akind person on a planet that is spinning on its axis 1,000 miles per hour while orbiting the sun at about 66,000 miles per hour. “It’s rather amazing that we don’t think we’re moving when we stand still, or that we don’t get dizzy from all that spinning! “How should we spend your time on this spaceship orbiting the sun? “Most philosophers agree that the purpose of life is happiness. Determining what makes you truly happy, not just superficially happy, is essential. “For most people, true happiness is loving and serving others and your-
self, and fully being in the moment. “There is no consensus about happiness and careers. We all have unique desires, interests, skills, and experiences. “So what career options should you explore in college? Buckminster Fuller (look him up in Wikipedia) advised: ‘What is it that needs to be done, that you can do something about, and won’t get done unless you do it? Then do it.’ “Thus, after a week or two of classes, find a peaceful place, sit comfortably, close your eyes, inhale and exhale deeply a few times, reflect on what you’re learning, and answer Buckminster Fuller’s question. “Then pursue it with passion and kindness while momentarily ignoring all the doubts.” ■ Heather Wipijewski , chair of veterinary technician program, Globe University — Madison East: “Ask questions. Chances are someone else in the class also has the same exact question you do. Instructors would much rather you ask questions about something you want additional information on. “Get involved. Try to involve yourself in campus/ programme specific activities. This is a great way to meet other students and it looks great on your resume as well. “Ask for help early! If you feel you are struggling in a certain area, ask for help before you fall behind. There are many resources on campus that are in place to help you, the student, be successful. “College isn’t easy. You are preparing yourself for your future career. It’s not always going to be easy and it isn’t meant to be. “Face those challenges head-on with your head held high. “Study, study, study (with breaks). You will need to study hard to do well in your classes and career. “However, you need to See WISDOM, page 27