The wheel diagram shows qualities that make up a focused, centered, and empowered student. You can use the wheel to assess your readiness for college-level work and as a discussion point with your advisor. Click on the thumbnail to see a bigger image:
Instructions:
Assess yourself in relation to each of the categories on the wheel. For each of the characteristics on the wheel, rate how well you are prepared, between 0-100%. The more confident you feel in an area, the higher rating to give yourself. Place a mark along the scale corresponding to your self-assessment. The identify strategies to strengthen your weaker areas. Contact your advisor if you need help identifying strategies.
Services are available to address the different categories:
| Self-esteem | Believe in yourself! Get involved in one of the many student organizations. Student counseling is free and confidential. |
| Self-management | Balance commitments to family, friends, work and school. How will you maintain a balanced lifestyle? Recognize your priorities. Make realistic choices - don't crash and burn. Student counseling can help sort things out. |
| Optimism | Keep a positive outlook to get through challenging times. F is for feedback - not failure. |
| Clear Vision | Have a clear goal, develop a plan that is right for you and plan ahead. Use Career Services, Counseling Services, and your advisor to clarify your vision of where you are headed. |
| Enthusiasm | Enjoy the academic journey! Dive in to your learning - the more time on task, and the more engaged you are in your learning, the more you'll enjoy your classes more enthusiasm you'll have to carry you through. |
| Skills | Complete your assessments and take recommended reading, writing and math courses early in your degree program. Use the Student Counseling Services, Disability and Special Services, TRIO and tutoring to develop your learning skills. |
| External Support System | Identify sources of support such as family, friends, employer, co-workers, Student Services, Financial Aid and TRIO. |
**Attributed to Mario Rivas, Student Services, Vista Community College