When a student has achieved a stable and realistic self-image, new challenges will be less threatening, and the student should be a better prepared to respond to new ideas and concepts or conflicting values and beliefs. Although this vector involves educational and vocational planning and making lifestyle choices, it also focuses on establishing priorities. I hope I have a positive influence on the development of my students as will as on my own children. This my purpose in life. I want my students to think beyond what kind of job or income they want, or what kind of house or car they desire.
Life is precious and unpredictable.
Perhaps most important, however, is achieving the congruence between values and behavior that truly signifies integrity. Hopefully, because we envision our mission as the development of the whole student, not just the development of intellectual competence. I would like to think that our profession exemplifies not only excellence in teaching our content areas, but in education well-rounded individuals who will emerge from our colleges and universities prepared for the years to come. Pardon me if I bristle every time I hear someone refer to what I do as remedial. My students are not sick, and they do not need to be cured.