One of the most rewarding parts of being a returning coach is watching my students grow over time. Some students become more successful academically, earning higher grades than the year before or managing their workload more effectively. Others develop less tangible but equally important skills, including stronger communication, greater confidence and a more positive outlook towards school and what comes next.
All of my students change meaningfully over our time together, but those who stand out most are the students who develop both academically and personally. Seeing them step into themselves and become more self-assured is the most fulfilling part of this work.
When I first met James last year, he was a quiet student; confident enough to approach me while I was tabling at Washburn but reserved in conversation and hesitant to share much about his academic interests.
That began to shift when he started attending college visits at Washburn’s College and Career Center. James signed up for nearly every visit available. I still remember when representatives from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities came to speak: most students stayed quiet during the session, but James stood out right away. He asked thoughtful questions about engineering programs, transferring credits from Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO), a program that allows high school students to take college-level courses, to his undergraduate degree and what different academic pathways could look like for him.
It was a small moment, but an important one.
Over time, those experiences added up. James built a stronger understanding of his college options and started taking more ownership of his future planning. We began working together on college applications, essays and identifying schools that align with his goals.
My relationship with James also grew. We talk openly about how things are going in his classes, where he feels confident and where he wants to improve. He has taken advantage of PSEO and more advanced coursework, moving from earlier math support classes into more rigorous pathways as his confidence and skills have grown.
Just as importantly, James has grown into himself. He stops by the College and Career Center regularly to check in, share stories or make the room laugh with a quick comment or joke. He has built stronger connections with classmates, and carries himself with a mature confidence.
James no longer approaches our conversations with hesitation, but rather asks questions with curiosity and speaks more freely about his interests and goals. High school is a time of transition, and James has made the most of that opportunity.
While I cannot take credit for his progress, I do know that consistent support and guidance have helped him stay on track and build confidence in his path forward.
I am proud of how far he has come, and I am excited to see what he does next. I hope we stay in touch long after high school as he continues to grow and pursue his goals.
