Goal Setting

I'd like to thank Karen and Zach, they did an exceptional job running the class this week. I thought the activity they used was great. The goal that I set for next year as a peer mentor was basically like Zach and Karen's. I want to get to know all of my students very well by name, county, major, and just some other facts such as what kind of background they've come from by at least halfway through the semester. I feel if I can accomplish this goal I can develop a relationship with my students so that they feel I really care that they succeed in their first year here at Iowa State. I feel this goal is fairly specific because it seems quite clear for me. Being able to remember my student's names seems very precise to me. This goal also seems very measurable. I can track my progress very easily throughout the semester to see how I am doing remembering names, counties, and majors by asking in class. This goal also seems very attainable because I feel that I am actually pretty good with remembering facts about certain people that are a part of my life. This goal is very relevant to what I am doing. Being able to remember my students will be very important to being a mentor. If a can't even remember their names, how can I help my students to succeed in their first year. This goal is also very time-limited. I put a realistic time limit to where I think I should be able to remember my students name, county, and major. Another goal that I set for myself was to be on Dean's list for my remaining semesters. For this goal I used the four M's method to help set specific and effective steps so that accomplish this for the remainder of my college education. For motivation, I said this would make me a better person altogether along with helping me with my career. Their are many commitments that I would need to make to obtain this goal. Going to class, studying hard, and completing my homework to the best of my ability seems like some very good commitments to make. For modifying my environment I could make sure I limit my time from my social life and find a place suitable where I can study without to many distractions. I can easily monitor my actions by checking my grades regularly during the semesters to make sure I can actually achieve this goal. I realized when using the SMART and Four M's methods in class that they are great ways to help you achieve your goals. Using these methods help to remember specific steps to follow when accomplishing your goals. Even using each type of method, you could develop different strategies for particular long or short term goals.