Goal Commitment

Value of and commitment to a college degree; Making your success in college a priority

Getting a college degree is important, and has huge benefits throughout your lifetime. While some people might question “is it worth it,” research still shows that college degree holders still earn, on average 75% more than those who have a high school diploma. What’s more, people with a college degree are more likely to have a job, particularly when times get tough. Following the economic crisis of 2008, the unemployment rate for those that held a college degree was around 4%, while those without a degree saw an unemployment rate of roughly 10%. A college degree has also been related to many other benefits, such as improved health.

But in order for you to be successful, getting a degree must be important to you. It can’t be something far off in the distance, but something that’s a priority on a day-to-day basis. When tough decisions arise, such as choosing between studying for an exam or doing something with your friends, making your success in college a priority will be the difference.

I don’t focus on what I’m up against.

I focus on my goals and I try to ignore the rest.
Venus Williams

How can I improve my Goal Commitment?

Strategies to Use

First thing’s first: make sure your college success is important to you. If you’re unclear about how or why you’re in college or in this particular field of study, use the resources below to either talk with others at your college/university or to reflect on your own thoughts (see Online Resources).
If you’re struggling to prioritize college among other competing aspects of your life, check out resources related to Organization to help better manage your time.

Resources at Western Carolina

The Division of Student Success provides the resources needed to help you reach your academic potential and complete your degree that will lead to opportunities beyond WCU. Refer to the Division of Student Success for support in academic advising, career and professional development, tutoring, and mentoring.
The Office of Student Retention implements targeted advising interventions for students in need of additional support to be successful and connects them with campus resources.

Online Resources

Check out this simple worksheet from the University of Colorado that helps you articulate and plan for your goals.
This article from Purdue University discusses tips and resources for goal setting.
If you use Google Calendar on your phone, this post discusses how to use “Google Goals” to be more productive.