25 Steps to Success
25 Steps from Zero to Success is a comprehensive program, designed by Fay Gershgorin, OTR/L, OTD, MBA, a Doctor of Occupational Therapy, empowers teens and their families to navigate the exciting yet often overwhelming journey towards embarking on self-discovery and university success.
The program is divided into five key phases, each with actionable steps to guide the clients:
Phase 1: Self-Discovery and Exploration (Steps 1-5):
- Interests & Values Inventory: Explore your passions, strengths, and values to identify potential academic and career paths.
- Skill Assessment: Uncover your academic, organizational, and study skills – and areas for development.
- Learning Style Evaluation: Identify your preferred learning style (visual, auditory, kinesthetic) to optimize study strategies.
- Personality and Career Exploration: Discover personality types and how they align with potential careers.
- Research and Career Fairs: Explore different educational institutions and career possibilities through research and attending career fairs (online or in-person).
Phase 2: Building a Strong Foundation (Steps 6-10):
- Goal Setting & Time Management: Set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals for academics and overall well-being. Learn effective time management techniques to balance schoolwork, extracurriculars, and personal life.
- Organization & Planning: Establish efficient study systems, organization tools, and create a personalized schedule to boost productivity.
- Developing Study Skills: Learn effective reading, note-taking, and critical thinking strategies to enhance information retention and comprehension.
- Communication & Collaboration: Develop strong communication skills for presentations, group projects, and interacting with professors.
- Building Healthy Habits: Promote healthy sleep patterns, nutrition, and physical activity to support focus, energy levels, and overall well-being.
Phase 3: High School Success Strategies (Steps 11-15):
- Course Selection & Planning: Choose courses that align with your academic interests and future goals.
- Developing Relationships with Teachers: Build positive relationships with teachers to seek guidance, clarify course expectations, and access resources.
- Active & Effective Participation: Become an active learner in the classroom by participating in discussions, asking questions, and seeking clarification.
- Developing Strong Work Habits: Foster discipline, punctuality, and a commitment to completing assignments with high quality.
- Test-Taking Strategies: Explore and practice effective test-taking strategies to manage anxiety and maximize performance.
Phase 4: College Preparation and Application Process (Steps 16-20):
- Standardized Testing Preparation: Develop strategies for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, as needed for your chosen university paths.
- Researching Universities and Majors: Explore university websites, attend information sessions, and connect with university representatives to find the best fit academically, socially, and financially.
- Crafting a Compelling College Application: Learn how to write a strong personal statement, highlight your achievements, and tailor applications to different universities.
- Financial Aid and Scholarship Exploration: Understand financial aid options, scholarships, and resources to help manage college costs.
- College Visitations: Schedule campus visits to experience the college environment firsthand and make informed decisions.
Phase 5: Transitioning to University Life (Steps 21-25):
- Developing Independence and Self-Advocacy Skills: Build life skills for managing time, finances, and living independently in a new environment.
- Building a Support System: Identify resources and support available at university, including academic advisors, mental health services, and student organizations.
- Time Management for College Success: Adapt time management strategies to accommodate the increased workload and independence of college life.
- Effective Study Habits in College: Refine study skills to handle rigorous college-level coursework and maximize learning potential.
- Developing a Healthy College Lifestyle: Maintain healthy sleep patterns, nutrition, and physical activity to manage stress and optimize performance throughout your academic journey.
Throughout the Program:
- Individualized Approach: Dr. Fay will work collaboratively with you and your family to tailor the program to fit your specific needs, learning style, and goals.
- Ongoing Support & Communication: Regular meetings, check-ins, and access to resources will ensure you feel supported and empowered throughout the process.