Toni Winiker | November 13, 2024
This article kicks off a three-part series on preparing students for a globalized world. Here, we highlight how high school experiences shape college readiness. Future editions will explore insights from middle and elementary school. Stay tuned!
In an increasingly interconnected world, high school educators play a critical role in preparing students not only for college but also for the global landscape they will navigate in their careers and personal lives. Recently, first-year undergraduate students shared reflections on the support and skills they gained in high school. From handling challenging workloads to building confidence in discussions, these students’ experiences reveal the importance of globally competent education fostering independence, adaptability, and an appreciation for varying perspectives.
One key area where some students felt well-prepared was in academic skills and workload management. As one student shared, “My high school teachers gave me a challenging workload that’s pretty close to what I deal with now. It pushed me to learn time management, critical thinking, and how to work independently—all things I use every day in college.” These skills, essential for college, are equally valuable in a globalized world, where young adults must be prepared to adapt, learn quickly, and independently tackle complex challenges in various cultural and professional contexts.
Another theme that emerged was the impact of teacher support. Many students appreciated the approachable and encouraging atmosphere their teachers created, which made them feel comfortable seeking guidance. One student noted, “I always felt comfortable asking questions or looking for help when I needed it.” This support goes beyond academic success; it builds self-confidence and resilience, helping students feel prepared to navigate new and diverse environments—whether in a college setting, a study abroad program, or future international work.
Open discussions in high school classrooms also played a significant role in building global competency. Students valued the opportunity to engage in respectful dialogue, which taught them to share ideas confidently—a skill that’s proven essential in college classes and group projects. “My teachers encouraged open discussions, which helped me get comfortable sharing ideas,” one student reflected. By fostering respectful and open classroom discussions, teachers help students appreciate multiple perspectives and develop the empathy and communication skills necessary for working effectively in multicultural environments.
In terms of constructive feedback, some students noted that high school exam preparation often relied heavily on study guides, which could leave students unprepared for the broader, critical thinking-based questions typical of college exams. Moving beyond study guides to more comprehensive review methods, such as real-world case studies or discussions of global issues, could better prepare students for the types of complex, analytical thinking required in college and beyond.
As these testimonials illustrate, high school teachers play a pivotal role in shaping students’ readiness for college and the global world. The skills students build—independence, open-mindedness, and the ability to communicate across perspectives—equip them not only for academic success but for a lifetime of learning and engagement in a diverse, interconnected world. In the words of one student, “my teachers taught me more than just facts—they helped me feel ready for this next step.” In this way, high school educators are not only preparing students for college but also empowering them to thrive in an interconnected world. With the right guidance and encouragement, today’s students can become the globally competent leaders of tomorrow.