Gradual Transformation and Maturation

Our son joined College Excel after a tumultuous four years of high school that included attending a traditional high school, a boarding school and a wilderness program. What appealed to us most when we chose the program was the unique combination of empowering students with independence, while providing support to help develop important life skills. What we got was so much more.

College Excel helped us better understand the dynamics between our son and ourselves. With their help, we were able to finally see how our actions were hindering him from taking responsibility for himself. We began to identify what works well and what doesn't work well in the communications between us.

In our instant gratification society, we had to accept that this transformation and maturation wasn't going to be quick or easy. We went through some rough times and regression, but College Excel helped us let go and watch our son stumble and fall. They advised us not to run to his rescue, and helped us deal with our guilt and fears. As a result, our son learned he could lift himself up and move forward without our intervention. Because of it, we now see confidence and self-esteem where there was anger and anxiety. The glow he emanates (even on the phone) about his accomplishments is genuine. We believe our son is well on his way to becoming a self-sufficient young adult.

Our son has developed a strong bond with the College Excel staff based on mutual trust and respect. They don't tell the student what to do. They ask him to think through the consequences of his choices. They've helped him think for himself and take ownership of his successes and failures.

From what we've seen, the College Excel's Community House serves as a home away from home for the students. There is adult guidance and support available to them as they deal with the real world challenges faced by college-age kids. It's the calm in the storm, and something we all could have used when we attended college so many years ago.

Karen & Jim

© Changing Directions, LLC 2006