I
have a beautiful phalaenopsis orchid. Over an extended period, buds have
gradually formed, and opened, revealing several glorious orchids. I now have
six large white orchids on the stem, and there are two more buds waiting to
open. It has taken time during which I needed to show significant
patience while I waited for these flowers to bloom.
My good friend, Emeritus Professor of Gifted Education, Miraca Gross – who was
the founder of the Gifted Education Research, Resource, and Information Centre
(GERRIC) at UNSW, often encouraged ‘festina lente’ – the Latin expression
meaning ‘hasten slowly’. Her approach was that it was important to take
time; to consider all possibilities before coming to a decision about anything.
Often, people are encouraged to rush. This is especially so with
high-ability youth whom others assume have the capability to think and respond
quickly. In fact, greater cognitive capacity means there is an awareness of
more possibilities that might be considered before deciding upon the best
option.
Even though it is assumed that current youth may redirect over the years,
deciding upon an initial career requires thoughtful consideration.
High-ability youth with wide-ranging abilities might be told by
well-intentioned adults that they can do anything. This is neither
correct nor helpful as students need to initially select a specific path. In
some cases, it is possible to select a career that allows the intersection of a
couple of specific primary interests (e.g., an equine vet, a paediatric
oncologist, a scientific illustrator, etc.) or for an abiding interest to sit
alongside a career (e.g., a musical doctor, a surfing environmentalist or a
playwright lawyer) but a decision about a career must be made by each student.
It is useful to consider one’s Values, Interests and Personality (VIP) in
addition to understanding what subject areas one excels in, when considering
career options. Some interests might co-exist as secondary pursuits
beside one’s primary career. Eventually an individual may identify a
speciality and develop expertise (in some instances specialist qualifications)
within their field of choice.
Hastening slowly’ means getting on with it but not rushing into
anything. Considering a range of options is important if all
possibilities are to be considered. Patience is required. It takes time
for everyone (not only orchids) to ‘bloom’ and to develop the skills that are
required within a certain career.
When values, interests and personality traits are considered (in conjunction
with cognitive abilities and academic achievements), there is a greater
likelihood that a realistic but well-fitting career is selected that is the
best choice for a student’s future.
© Michele
Juratowitch
michele@clearingskies.com.au