Self Confidence in School

Articles on Education | Topics: education, educate, school, schools, schooling

by Adrienne Yates

Self Confidence in School

From elementary school through college and beyond, getting a good education and constantly trying to learn are essential for future success. They can also be the key to self-confidence. If you feel knowledgeable and experienced because of your education, you will feel confident in your abilities as you apply the theoretical concepts you've learned to everyday life.

If you're not interested in a full degree program, check out a special certification, or even look into taking a single class on a topic that intrigues you. Community education classes can also offer condensed ways to learn popular topics like conversational foreign language skills and computer programs. You'll feel better about yourself when you regularly expand your mind.

However, sometimes school itself causes problems with confidence. It certainly doesn't boost your confidence if you fail a class or struggle every night with homework but never seem to get it. First, know that having trouble in school doesn't make you less of a person. Even if others nag and complain, stay confident in your other good qualities while you work to improve your academic performance.

You don't have to face your school problems alone. Seek out help to do your best in school. Your options for schoolwork assistance will vary depending on your age and the type of school you're attending. If you're a young student or you're looking for help for your child, there will be many options offered by the school itself. Elementary schools offer pull-out programs for extra reading help, and middle schools may offer tutoring opportunities with high school volunteers.

At the high school level, the National Honor Society or other volunteers often set up tutoring programs. Some schools include a homeroom or study hall period during the day, and this is a great time to meet with a teacher for extra help. It may also be necessary to meet with a teacher during lunch or before or after school. It might not be fun, but it's worth it to make progress and gain more confidence in your work.

Quote of the Day

Those who first introduced compulsory education into American life knew exactly why children should go to school and learn to read: to save their souls.... Consistent with this goal, the first book written and printed for children in America was titled Spiritual Milk for Boston Babes in either England, drawn from the Breasts of both Testaments for their Souls’ Nourishment.

—Dorothy H. Cohen (20th century)

At the college level, there are similar services available. Professors are required to hold office hours. Many students are nervous about showing up during this time, but it's the best way to get help in a class. A meeting with your professor will go more smoothly if you show up with a specific problem or concern rather than simply arriving and saying, "I don't get it." Look for a student support office if you would like a tutor. If you're willing to pay, you can also check out bulletin boards and classified ads in the school newspaper for older students willing to tutor for an hourly fee. If you want to take matters into your own hands, set up a study group with other members of your class. You can combine your knowledge and abilities for better results all around.

Consider getting tested for a learning disability or attention problem if you feel like the basic homework and studying strategies just aren't working. There is no shame in finding out that you have a learning problem and it can set you on the road to confidence if you can learn specific strategies tailored to your needs.

If you find traditional school subjects difficult for you, consider pursuing studies in other areas that will allow you to feel success. Are you artistic? Enroll in an art class. Do you love public speaking or doing impressions? Then check out the drama department. Or maybe your best skills don't fit into any traditional school subject. If you're a high school student or you're trying to encourage your child to find their special skill, look into vocational programs. These classes are much more than the auto shop classes of the past. You can find specialized courses in agriculture, nursing, childcare and much more. If you're an adult looking for more education, community colleges may offer certificate programs that are heavy on practical experience and light on unrelated required classes.

You will only get out of your education as much as you put into it. Hopefully, with the right attitude and effort, you can gain newfound confidence from your time in school.

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Please note: All personal opinions expressed in the "Self Confidence in School" article belong to the contributing author and are not necessarily shared by SloanSemester.org.

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