Calvin B Affleck

CONVERSATIONS About Education, Careers and Life Calvin B Affleck

Open and honest conversations will lead to better education, career and life choices A central theme in this book is that college is a good system designed to prepare students, both intellectually and socially, for careers and adult life. But, it's not the only option, and often not the best option, for some students. What makes this book different and unique is the perspective provided from an educator/father who is committed to the idea of college and a son whose first experience with college led him to drop out. This book lifts up a critically important dialogue that young adults and their advocates should be having about the best post-secondary pathway for them. When and how to pursue education beyond high school with minimal debt should be individualized and connect to the young adult's passion, purpose and sense of place. This candid father and son conversation about real life challenges makes it clear that young adults can succeed by going to a well-chosen college. They also can succeed by pursuing a number of other viable options for education and training beyond the four-year college or university. Inside you'll find...-Advice, insights and stories about college and careers -Chapters on finding your passion, college selection and application, paying for college, the Gap Year, Online Learning, Certifications and Apprenticeships, Self-love, mental health and social media and more -A discussion of the importance of Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion -A discussion of college in the time of COVID-19 -Guidance for students, parents, student advocates, and educators -Anecdotes, personal stories and reflections from the authors in each chapter -Action steps at the end of each chapter and references to related resources The authors seek to spark more conversations to help young adults and all of us to think of life's countless challenges and boundless options. They hope to help readers to find their "Passion, Purpose and Place," and to develop the knowledge and skills needed to lead productive, healthy and happy lives.