Where Will They Be in 10 years?

July 30, 2014

It has often been said to many a student - "Get your education!  Your future depends on it!"   For many children and student the key mystery word is "future."  Some cannot even plan for tomorrow!

Years ago I was privileged to participate in a National Youth At Risk Task Force which brought together educators from throughout the country.  It was the most enlightening experience of my professional career because I was in the presence of "experts" passionate about youth and the future of our nation under their (the youth's) care.  So many issues were brought to the table!  I think our first three-day meeting kept us engaged sixteen hours per day.  We departed with more questions and less answers but one thing was clear: many,many children and students do not see themselves positively in the future.  They go along day-by-day simply tackling each hour as it comes without a plan!

A sad moment for me when I go out and talk with students is their response of "I don't know" when asked:  "So what are your plans for the future?"  They have no idea that they are in "training" at the present time for the type of adults and participants in the workforce that they will become!  I always mention to them that the majority of the adults around them have jobs and that their (the student's) job is to go to school, learn all that they can, develop career goals, work towards the goals and achieve them so that they may take their place in the world of work as a professional or technical person.  Above and beyond, their on-going goals are to become productive, contributing members of society!   Whish!  That goes over their heads sometimes; and sometimes they say "Huh?"  The future is NOW.  "What are you doing to prepare?"  I ask.  Some respond by saying that they have not thought about it.  Others - very few - others do have a plan.  "I want to be a pediatrician specializing in cardiology."
"Wow!"  I say.  "Awesome.  Good for you.  I hope that if my granddaughter is ever in need of a pediatrician with a cardiology specialty you will be around to help her!"  They blush.

Parents, the future is now.  Talk with your children about their future goals.  Where will they be in 5, 10, 15, 20 years?  We need teachers, doctors, nurses, mechanics, computer techs, programmers, architects, real estate agents, scientists, dietitians, etc., etc. etc.    We have no idea about the many job titles that are still to be developed!   Explore with your child/student.  Dream with them about what their future can be.  PLEASE help THEM help others make the world a better place.