Stephen Bigelow, PhD - Education Leadership

Students today are encouraged to participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities. While these experiences are invaluable for personal growth, creativity, and skill development, finding the right balance is crucial to maintaining mental and physical health. Reflecting on my journey, I was fortunate to have several opportunities that shaped my personal and professional life, though they pale compared to the options available to students today. Participating in athletics like basketball and long-distance running and playing in the band taught me essential life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and resilience. These experiences provided invaluable lessons not found in the classroom. I started working at 14 as a dishwasher and held various less-than-glamorous jobs throughout high school and college. They opened my eyes to different realities and instilled a work ethic that has served me throughout my life. Today’s students have access to a more sophisticated array of options,...