As I have passed many schools lately, I have seen the signs with dates listed for graduations and end of school release. I am amazed that another year has passed so quickly. I have a high school reunion coming up soon that reminds me how very long ago it was that I graduated.
I remember getting ready to go away to college. I had a full scholarship to go to a school out of state, so was preparing for my first time away from my family for an extended time period. I spent a great deal of time that summer getting everything ready for my dorm room, attending orientation for the honors college and getting my schedule selected.
Throughout that process of getting myself “prepared” for college, I really thought I was ready. In those days, I had used the computer and had done some programming so thought I knew everything I needed. Back in those days we still took notes on paper and used actual books.
I think about how the class of 2010 students must be so extremely proficient with all kinds of technology tools to be “prepared” for college. To really succeed, they must be able to use all of the Office suite programs and photo/video software, too. If a graduate today is not ready for that side of college, too, then they will be at a disadvantage from day one.
To me, it seems like a great gift for a graduate to have a customized training session (3 or 6 hour) to make sure he or she has the tools to succeed. We spend so much time getting everything ready but sometimes neglect the important technology skills. So, if you know a graduate, think about investing in them to help them succeed in college and in the working world!!
Last week I was sitting at a college graduation ceremony. It was for a local community college. The excitement and happiness was so palpable. Just under half of students were first time college degree graduates. In order to obtain their certificate or associate’s degree, the students had so many hurdles and barriers to get past. 
Over many, many years of working with technology, I’ve learned so many important truths. I’ve learned that you never know everything. I’ve learned that technology is increasing at a break-neck speed and changes faster than we have ever seen. The top truth I’ve learned is that you are never done learning.
