Exploring the riddles of the future with school counselors

By Amber Stentzel

Picture of Ms. Sewell taken by Amber Stentzel

The future can feel overwhelming and scary, with not knowing what classes to take in the upcoming school years and entering into the real world. However, Owasso High School’s counselors are here to help with any questions and concerns students may have. These well-rounded professionals are wise from their years of experience and are here to solely assist students in figuring out what is best for each individual. 

Here are some commonly asked questions and the counselors' answers. 

Question: What is a life skill that will be helpful for students in school and life?

Ms. Addison Sewell: “Time management. You have to figure out if what you are putting on your plate is doable.” 

Sewell further discussed the process of figuring out which classes a student would thrive in and how these courses might fit into their schedule. 

Fellow counselor Mrs. Copeland asked an important question: “As you guys are moving through your academic and daily lives, how do you become your advocate? By putting a voice behind your needs, questioning and being engaged.”

It is essential to learn how to stand up for yourself and take action to achieve your goals. Adversities are always prominent, but when students are their own supporters, they are more confident in making decisions. These skills can help students be proactive in school and life. 

Question: What do you advise those who want to have a busy schedule? 

Sewell: “You have to make sure you have everything scheduled out and that you follow through.” 

She emphasized how using a planner has helped her greatly. Seeing everything written out and having a plan for each day can help with better time management. In addition, the option of syncing classes to the calendar app can help remind people about important due dates.

Question: What was something you wish you knew going into college? 

Sewell: “Ask for help and use your resources…make connections with people at your college and job, form those relationships. It makes it easier to ask for help.” 

She touched on the importance of introducing yourself to your superiors. This habit makes the student stand out and seem polite, while also making it easier for the teacher or professor to understand the students' needs. 

Question: What are some important resources that helped you?

Sewell: “Any college you go to will have student success resources and career services which help you know what you can do after college like finding job interviews…new student orientation is so helpful. They get you with a financial counselor and they help you know what and where those resources are.”

These types of tools can help students be more successful in bringing the best work to their teachers and even future employers. When students go beyond expectations, they set themselves apart from others. 

Question: What do you advise seniors who don’t currently have a plan for the future?

Sewell: “Come see me, and we can have a one-on-one conversation about it because it’s not too late to decide.” 

Sewell highlighted how it is absolutely crucial to have a plan—even if the plan is to spend a year working and saving up or going straight to college. 

“Some might feel like their plan isn't good enough, but it is your plan; it doesn’t matter what everyone else is doing,” Sewell pointed out. 

As Mrs. Copeland added, “Everybody’s journey is different, and when we compare ourselves, we can become off-track.”

Peer competition is a necessary component to help people stay motivated to keep improving. However, this comparison can lead to feeling as though they are not good enough. Finding that balance between competition and comparison can help students stay on a healthy path of growth.

Question: How can students manage their stress better?

Sewell: “Finding that balance between homework and friends. And again managing your time, if you have breaks between classes do your homework then.” 

Using time wisely can help students not feel overwhelmed with homework later. It also allows more free time to spend with friends and family.

Question: How can students stay motivated?

Sewell: “I found motivation by getting my homework done during the week so that I didn’t have to do it during the weekend. So, find what motivates you.” 

It can be hard to find motivation, but setting little goals can help people feel accomplished and keep them driven. Having a mental vision or a to-do list can help people narrow their bigger goals.

Copeland: “Always have a goal! Success breeds success, failure breeds failure.”

As people focus on the objective, they can find motivation in attempting to reach those goals. One achievement can lead to a series of achievements, creating positive reinforcement to maintain this momentum. 

Question: What was something that shocked you going into college? 

Sewell: “I was shocked by how much time you have. You get to pick your schedule. You have so many options and so much free time.” 

As students discover who they are and what they want to participate in after high school, it can be helpful to receive guidance to ensure those plans are reasonable and applicable. There are various opportunities for the future that students might have yet to think about. These amazing counselors have gone through experiences, and they help students think about those other options. It can feel overwhelming not knowing what to do in the future or who to ask for help. It’s important to use resources to ensure students are making the best decisions and don’t feel stressed about the next chapter in their lives.