“Plymouth State University requires you to take classes in General Education so that you can develop some Habits of Mind that are critical to your success in college and beyond” (University Systems Of New Hampshire 2025). Four key Habits of Mind are purposeful communication, problem solving, integrated perspective, and self-regulated learning. They’re habits that can shape your success in college and in life after graduation.
As a marketing major with a minor in sales, I see how these habits already connect to the career path I’m working toward. My goal is to land a sales job once I graduate, and I know that building these skills now will help me stand out later.
For me, purposeful communication comes the most naturally. I’ve always been the kind of person who motivates people around me, and I enjoy communicating with my peers in a way that’s clear and uplifting. I’m also well-organized when it comes to planning and collaborating. That said, I know I still have room to grow—especially when it comes to public speaking. I’m confident in one-on-one and group conversations, but speaking in front of larger audiences is something I need more practice with. I’m hoping my classes and experiences at PSU will give me the chance to keep improving in that area.
“Self-Regulated Learning is a habit of mind that encompasses the desire to learn, the ability to set personal goals for learning, and the capacity to engage in a self-monitored learning process” (University Systems Of New Hampshire 2025). Not every habit comes easy. Self-regulated learning is the one I need to work on the most. I’ll admit I’m not great at sitting down and doing homework on my own time. I’m a hands-on worker who learns best by doing, so sometimes independent assignments can be tough for me. Still, I know this is an area where PSU will help me grow. The classes here push me out of my comfort zone, and collaborating with others in group projects helps keep me accountable.
Outside the classroom, PSU has given me plenty of opportunities to practice these habits too. Last year, I was involved in MAP, the marketing club, which gave me hands-on experience in my field and let me collaborate with students who share the same career interests. Clubs like this help me stay engaged, build leadership skills, and put what I’m learning into action.
I know that by the time I graduate, I won’t have these Habits of Mind mastered—no one ever truly does—but I will be much closer to the “summit” level. For me, that means becoming a stronger communicator, more confident public speaker, more independent learner, and a well-rounded professional who’s ready to succeed in sales.