Each profession has its values, history, and philosophy id est a set of thoughts that supports its action. The professional must know these values, the evolution of the profession, and what are the different theories that support them. This knowledge is spread over three degrees: fundamental, intermediate, and advanced.
Although I have already worked in the field of Higher Education in Africa, particularly in Congo, here things are well structured, theories exist concerning the development of the intellectual identity of the student. There, my role was limited to taking attendance at the students’ and teachers’ classes, monitoring the progress of courses, controlling the effective payment of school fees…
By enrolling in higher education and students affairs majors, I was far from imagining myself, what I will learn during my schooling. With the different courses and readings, I am building a solid foundation that will serve me throughout my profession. It is with an interest mixed with curiosity that I follow all the classes.
As can be seen through my experience, I am still at the beginning, that is to say at the fundamental level, where the milestones are laid for a successful career. To socialize myself, I am interested in professional associations like NACADA NASPA, ACPA, #HigherEdSocial, where I can meet my predecessors who have accumulated many years of careers.
I follow their opinions on Twitter, TweetDeck, blogs, or websites, to learn about this profession. Little by little, my path begins to light up. I understand what our values are, where we come from and where we want to go into the future, what are the trends.