Empowering the Next Generation of Mavericks at Mitchell Community College!
The Journey Begins: Admitted Maverick Days
Starting college is much like embarking on a journey into uncharted territory. It’s filled with excitement, anticipation, and inevitably, a bit of uncertainty. During a recent team building program at Mitchell Community College, I had the privilege of connecting with 300 incoming students divided over 10 sessions as they took their first steps on this journey. These students, many of whom were still in high school, were eager yet unsure of what lay ahead, and it was clear that the path they were about to take would require them to step out of their comfort zones and face challenges head-on.
Planning and Collaboration
This transformative experience was part of a broader team building initiative I had the pleasure of planning in collaboration with the Vice President of Student Services and two of his dedicated staff members. Our goal was to help these students forge new friendships, explore the wealth of resources available at the college, and set meaningful personal, academic, and career goals.
Prior to this program, I had already led a team building event for the 20 Student Services staff members from both the Statesville and Mooresville campuses. That experience laid the groundwork for this program, allowing us to create an environment where incoming students felt supported and encouraged to grow.
Stepping Out of Comfort Zones
It was fascinating to observe how shy and reserved these young students were at the outset. They were cautious, hesitant to engage with their peers—understandably so, given the newness of their surroundings and the pressure of what lay ahead. To address this, I opened each session by talking about comfort zones. We discussed the importance of stepping outside these familiar boundaries and the personal growth that can occur when we embrace discomfort as a catalyst for change.
One of the activities that helped students ease into this idea was our group juggle game, where we talked about goal setting. This exercise encouraged students to think about their larger goals—what brought them to college, what they hoped to achieve, and how they could use their education to accomplish those goals. This simple yet powerful activity helped break the ice and set the tone for deeper discussions.
Unwavering Support: Resources That Make a Difference
I was truly impressed by the range of resources that Mitchell Community College’s Student Services has in place to support students and make them feel fully backed by the college. From clubs and organizations that foster a sense of community to events and activities that encourage peer engagement, the college provides numerous avenues for connection and growth. I collaborated with the Student Services staff to create a comprehensive checklist, ensuring that students stay on track and do everything they need to be successful in their academic journey. These resources are invaluable in helping students navigate the wealth of resources to access the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in college and beyond.
Discussing Mental Health Through Art
Another impactful activity I included in the program centered around the topic of mental health—a crucial aspect of student life that Mitchell Community College is committed to supporting. I curated a collection of about 15 artistic images, each reflecting different ideas and emotions related to mental health. These images were displayed in an art gallery setup, and students were invited to visit the gallery and reflect on what mental health meant to them.
I invite you to browse the images below and consider the following prompts:
What feelings or thoughts come to mind when you look at the images?
How does these images relate to mental health for you?
Do any images remind you of any personal experiences?
What actions could these images inspire you to take for your mental health?
Was there anything about these image that made you uncomfortable? Why?
How might others see these image differently?
This exercise allowed students to express their thoughts and emotions in a non-verbal way, which was particularly powerful for those who found it challenging to discuss mental health openly. After viewing the gallery, students shared their reflections on a whiteboard, creating a rich list of ideas, quotes, actions, and thoughts about how to take care of their mental well-being. This activity naturally led into a discussion about the mental health resources available at Mitchell Community College, such as the "Hope Text" program and free counseling services, highlighting the importance of seeking support when needed.
The Power of Reflection
To close each session, I asked students to write a postcard to themselves, reflecting on the goals they wanted to set in the areas of personal, academic, and career development. It was a simple task, yet it revealed so much. Many students struggled to complete this exercise—not because they lacked goals, but because they weren’t accustomed to articulating them in such a concrete way. Some postcards were left blank, while others contained just a few words. But for those who did complete the task, the process of writing down their aspirations was a powerful step toward turning those goals into reality. Even for those who left their postcards incomplete, I made it a point to ensure that as many as possible reached their destinations.
Looking Ahead
I’m so proud of the outcomes we achieved together, and I can’t wait to see the positive impact these students will have as they embark on their college journey. The next time I lead a program like this, I’ll remember that it’s not just about the activities we do—it’s about the beginning of a journey, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.
Living in the community where I led this program, it’s particularly meaningful for me to lead programs like "Admitted Maverick Days." It’s reinforced my desire to continue developing and leading more team building initiatives locally, especially those that incorporate sustainability—an area I’m deeply passionate about. If you’re looking to bring impactful team building to your team, particularly with a green twist, I’d love to connect and learn about your goals and objectives.
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