The other day while walking my dog, Scout, I stopped to pick a dandelion. It had reached that point in its life cycle and it was ripe for picking and as children are wont to do – blowing upon. Releasing their intricate umbrella shaped seeds into the air creating the possibility for new life. I’m not sure what prompted me to re-engage in this childhood tradition, but it was wonderful. I paused for a moment or two marveling at the beauty of this overlooked, misunderstood and under appreciated flower. I noticed details that enhanced its beauty and forever changed the way I will see them.
Once released from our childhood whimsies, we grow to see the dandelion as a nuisance. Something that detracts from a well manicured lawn. Almost impossible to eradicate. We liken it to a weed that is without merit or value. We are wrong.
Dandelions are, in fact, great for soil health. They have varied and potent medicinal value. Not only are they edible but they hold more nutritional value than most vegetables we eat. They are, like most things in nature, divine and miraculous.
To overlook the potential of a flower at our feet is unfortunate but understandable. To overlook the potential of a student right in front of us is an altogether different matter.
I am fortunate to teach at two different universities. One is private and one is public. One is very expensive and the other quite affordable. As a result, they attract students who are typically from dramatically different economic classes.
It is not fair to compare college students and the challenges they face. For they are largely out of their control. At the same time, when employers look at lines of a resume, they will often miss the full story of what has led them to this point.
Most of my students at City College are first generation, meaning they don’t have much guidance in navigating the worlds of higher education or white collar job searches. Most work in college, meaning they are more likely to miss out on extracurricular activities like club and unpaid internships that bolster a resume. They have commutes that are often one to two hours. This combined with their jobs and family responsibilities make it more likely they will miss some classes or be late to others. My experience has also shown that grade inflation is a much bigger issue at expensive private colleges than it is as public ones. One theory being that – perhaps subconsciously – no one wants to upset a customer (parent) who is paying $80K+ for an education.
The net is that when two resumes hit a desk, it is easy to overlook one. This would be a mistake.
As they say, talent is evenly distributed even as opportunity and investment are not.
I am blown away by the eagerness to learn, to improve, to grow and to contribute that these students demonstrate. Their depth of thought, humility, compassion, and street smarts make them ideal employees for any company or organization. If only you stop to look a little closer. The added benefit, similar to that of the dandelion, is that when you do, the seeds you plant will spread across the land for generations to come.
Recommendation for the Week: Run – don’t walk – to go see the movie Sheep Detectives. It is funny, moving, and so heartfelt. Within the story line, is another overlooked thing of beauty – winter sheep – that will steal your heart. Trust me you and your family will love it – regardless of your age.
Consider sharing this with anyone you know who has hiring responsibilities.