How do you define success--in the classroom or on the job? part 1

Some college students do the absolute minimum required and are satisfied with passing the course. Some determine to work hard enough to earn a "B" and refuse to do better. Some work very hard and earn an "A." Then, there are those who earn an "A," but go a step further. They do even more than is required--they add important documents which are not required, but would be invaluable in a real law office environment.

One might assume that a student's work ethic is the same one she will display in the work environment. So, what does it take to be a success--in the classroom or on the job?

Communication: She develops and refines her ability to talk to other professionals (or students and professors) or clients in person or by phone. She knows how to write a cogent letter or email--and understands when one mode of communication is preferred over the other.

Team Player: He works hard on his own studies or job, but is also interested in the success of his fellow peers. He is interested in their personal lives and is willing to invest his skills in helping them excel on the job. Will he help another student find a correct citation, will he show a co-worker a trick in Access to make a project much quicker and more professional in appearance? Will he acknowledge the part another student or staff member played in a project--or does he simply take full credit for an excellent job?

Big Picture: She sees beyond her own desk. She can see the ramifications of policies and decisions at school or on the job and how they impact others (employees or students), as well as the professor or attorney.

Positive: He seldom complains or generates unrest. He never gossips. He may acknowledge the difficulty, but he encouarges others to see it as a challenge--and helps them find ways to handle the situation and become more positive themselves.

Years ago I worked with a dear friend, Kathy. She was amazing. Everyone loved her. Why? She was the most accepting person I've ever met, and she was always ready to help someone or to affirm them. In fact, she was so upbeat I determined to entice her to say something uncomplimentary about someone--anyone! To my shame, I baited her for an entire week. That was a life-changing experience for me. Never once did she take the bait, never once did she denigrate someone else. I doubt that I have proved as upbeat and positive as Kathy, but I decided in that moment that I wanted to emulate those qualities--and have since strived to be more like her in those ways.

More to come! Check back for Part 2 on qualities of the successful student or employee.