Take a good look at how high school students nowadays are preparing themselves for college and work: acing the SAT, sending culled scores to universities, requesting teachers’ recommendation letters, anticipating positive results from hard work, etc. But even after passing standardized tests and proving their scholastic ability, does it actually mean that everyone flying off to universities is ready to leap into society?
The truth is, even though a strong background in traditionally known “hard” skills such as writing, mathematics, and science will always have its place in career worlds, it is more imperative for students to become insightful and to attain “soft” skills.
“Even though I am still a sophomore,” Keri Zhang ’17 voices, “it is hard to not notice how much the people around me are into honing solid academic skills. But sometimes considering real life skills might be a better idea, and now I can’t help but wonder how skilled I am in life.” Well, there is no need to pick a specific time: here is a chance for all of you to see how many of these mandatory “soft” skills you already possess.
Unlike “hard” skills, which can often times be rigid and very inflexible, soft skills include the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and to learn through specific experiences; they are, most of the time, applicable across multiple careers and disciplines. It is increasingly crucial for students to develop soft skills as they prepare to enter the bright future. Here are the most widely acknowledged soft skills college-bound students should acquire:
- Leadership: Soft skills and hard skills sometime come hand in hand. Leadership takes place when we draw upon knowledge or “hard” skills in a position of influence. This is why athletic teams choose captains and clubs elect presidents. Remember, strong communities favor leaders, not followers
- Time management: This might be a struggle for you procrastinators out there, but keep in mind that this one is the primary prerequisite for becoming a successful human being. The ability to track multiple projects in an organized and efficient manner while intelligently expediting tasks is vital—schools don’t emphasize the significance of self-sufficiency and prioritizing for nothing.
- Interpersonal skills: Having trouble effectively carrying on a conversation without appearing socially inept? This is what people need to work on the most. Nowadays, many employers are complaining about youngsters who are too timid to make eye contact, ask questions, or be active listeners. Even though I do not want to over-criticize the prevalence of electronic devices, people must comprehend how to communicate face-to-face without trouble!
- Collaboration: While it is essential to assume the lead in various activities, the ability to function effectively and appropriately in groups is also indispensable. Everyone entering society should be prepared to accept constructive extolment and criticism when working together. People who are successful only when working alone will struggle in college and beyond, as the majority of careers require collaboration.
- Problem-solving abilities: Last but not least, the capability to approach unexpected challenges correctly is of utmost importance. Many students are accustomed to rote processes and routines, which, in fact, may bring negative results. Over time, it is not surprising to find outside application and handling unanticipated setbacks difficult when one is coddled by predictable problems. Students can acquire more of this skill through experimental learning such as Science League competitions or debate club rather than rote memorization.
Focusing on current academic plights might be your priority for now, but remember to not lose sight of what is truly important in life in the long run.