Developmental Assets by Kimberly

Developmental Assets by Kimberly - August 2018 Scholarship Essay

Developmental Assets-- every young person needs them. Everyone adult can offer a young person something. There are 40 Developmental Assets; external assets which are support, empowerment, boundaries & expectations, and constructive use of time. And internal assets which are commitment to learning, positive values, social competencies, and positive identity. The more assets a young person has, the more successful they will be. When youth are given these assets, they will be able to achieve more in their life time.

In this podcast, these assets and their benefits would be discussed. Assets are concrete, positive, common sense experiences and qualities that help youth focus on the solutions rather than their problems. Youth who have positive experiences are less likely to drop out of school because they have skills, and support from adults around them. Discussing the 40 Developmental Assets will help parents and teachers, alike. If both are informed and are willing to work to give their children as many assets as they can, they are going to have more success in the classroom, and as they grow into adulthood.

During the podcast we would learn about the differences in external and internal assets, focusing on how some are about the experiences that other people provide, and the others on an individual qualities guide positive choices. These assets guide youth to develop a sense of confidence, find their own passions and a purpose for their lives. In a world where we have forced to teachers to teach and parent, these assets will help teachers. Education is so much more than just learning about history and how to write a proper English paper. Teachers are responsible for teaching basic social skills and life skills.

Higher education wants well rounded students who are highly involved and score high on tests. Employers want employees who work hard, are self motivated and have positive values. This is what we should be focusing on in our education system. Providing youth with as many opportunities for growth and success as possible.

Parents, youth, educators and anyone who listens to this podcast, will learn and understand how to create well rounded individuals who are fully capable of leading positive, successful adult lives. Youth who will grow up and give back to their communities, be productive members of our society and will give other youth an asset or two.