“This can be a very lonely job.” A statement often associated with the life of a counselor or a university representative. Even though you may be surrounded by students or traveling extensively to meet students, it typically ends up being a one-person role. This is when a community of counselors and representatives plays a significant role in redefining the word “family.”
As you keep reading, you’ll see the journey and personal insight of our colleagues for their holiday season plans and how they’re spending the last week of 2019 as we all approach a new decade. We hope you enjoy and even gain some new insights along the way!
“Some time ago, I had a memorable conversation with an admissions officer who mentioned that she needs to stop teaching, as she had been in that profession since 1982. We agreed on one thing: It is a never-ending process. We learn and we teach. That’s what I strive for and have grown to love. This is probably a lesson I learned from international conferences, especially IC3, which has given me the opportunity to meet people from around the world. Because I am able to share these experiences, and come to a realization that all the time I dedicated to counseling my students, I tried to make it a fun journey and I have learned along with them. These holidays, I look forward to spending quality time thinking of ways for improvement and cherish all the moments that come along with it.”
- Thowhed Hussain, Scholastica Senior Campus Uttara
“It’s not only the last month of the year, it’s the last month of the decade.
As I reach my ninth year working, I look back on 2019 with pride and gratitude. But what I’ve learned most of all over the years, is that perspective is what’s key.
This year was faced with challenges and joy on all personal, professional and physical levels. But looking through the lens of the last decade, this has made me realize how much I have done, how much I have changed, how much I have accomplished, and how much more I want to do. Professionally this decade I have been fortunate to have traveled to over 25 countries, taken on leadership opportunities, be part of a dynamic higher education community, and welcomed to a family (the IC3 family) that fosters change, and betterment for the world of college counseling. But there have also been sacrifices; loss, weeks away from home, loneliness, missed life events and more. We each have our stories, and it is up to us on how we want to create that narrative. With all that has been said and done, the most I am I’m looking forward to this holiday season is pausing and living in the moment, to spend time with family and loved ones and reflect on everything that I am grateful for in my life. My challenge for you is rather than looking back on the last year, to reflect back on the last ten, and hope that you leave feeling proud of all that you have achieved. With 2020 upon us, my wish for you is that it’s not only the best year to come, but the best decade to be the greatest version of yourself.”
-Alisha Koumphol, Ryerson University, Canada
“Seasons greetings to my IC3 friends! Like many people, this time of year is about family and stopping to appreciate those around us. This year we'll be in North Carolina with our three kids, doing what we enjoy most when we're together: eat, drink and be merry! Additionally, as much as I want to disconnect from social media, I also enjoy “spending time” with my international family, celebrating with them as well as supporting them as I know this time of year is not easy for everybody. I am grateful for the kindness of others in my life, more than ever, and vow to pay it forward in 2020. Wishing you all the best in the new year!”
- Bridget Herrera, American International School of Dhaka
The family of counselors and representatives of IC3 wish you all a wonderful holiday season and entry into a new decade. Take this time to relax, do what brings you joy, and reflect on how all of us can be part of every student’s dream!
Let’s go, 2020! We’re ready for you!