College can feel like a whirlwind, especially for first-year, first-generation, undecided, or non-traditional students. From managing new responsibilities to questioning whether they belong, many students get lost before they even get started or get lost somewhere along the way. This talk helps them shift from survival mode to success mode.
In this empowering and relatable keynote, Terry introduces a framework designed to help students take ownership of their academic and personal journey from the very beginning. With real stories, humor, and actionable tools, she breaks down what it means to truly show up, stay focused, and create a future that reflects their strengths and values. This talk is a motivational wakeup call, and a practical roadmap designed to boost retention and help students build a solid foundation toward graduation and beyond.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this talk, students will:
Identify the internal and external factors that create overwhelm in the first year
Learn a clear, actionable framework for staying organized, focused, and engages
Develop strategies to navigate uncertainty, academic challenges, and self-doubt
Gain clarity on how their background, goals, and interests can shape their path
Strengthen their sense of purpose and belonging on campus
Leave with a personal plan to make ownership of their experience and stay on track to graduation