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“I believe that no one can teach you how to act, but schools do give you an environment to make mistakes, to learn techniques and to learn professionalism”
-Enrico Colanti
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My full name is Oleksandr Grytsyk, but I prefer to go by Alex. I wrote this chapter on the skills of professionalism, as a 17 years old senior in Frank McCourt High School. I will make this introduction short by saying, high school was a difficult time for me. My performance in school was less than ideal, I missed a lot of school, and it’s all reflected in my poor academic record. I failed to take school seriously, and now have to prepare for the consequences that come, after I graduate. If I had the opportunity to go back in time and re-do high school all over again, everything would be done differently. As a student I would apply my understanding of responsibility and use it to overcome my hardships. I would have managed my time much more effectively and prioritized obligations thoroughly. Now, although those years have been my worst, I’ve learned a lot about myself in terms of what I am capable of accomplishing and what I still struggle with and need to approve upon. For example, during my first year of high school, I was pretty aggressive. I don’t mean physically aggressive; (don't worry) I wasn’t the kid who walked through hallways shoving people out of my way because I was mad. Instead, I was verbally aggressive. Something would tick me off and next thing I know, I was in another pointless argument; most likely with the principal. Now, all of my experiences have contributed to a better understanding of myself. Losing respect from my teachers and getting punished, taught me how to cope with my anger. Today, I am much calmer and know how to handle situations more effectively; I’m also sure many of my teachers can agree with this.
For all you new incoming freshman that will be attending Frank McCourt High School, or anyone else reading this; I plan to help you understand and apply the skill of professionalism to get through your first year of high school and the subsequent years that follow. Now if you listen to what I say. And apply it to your next four years, not only will it make school much easier for you, it will prepare you for life after high school. It will be a crucial element in getting you into the workforce! I just really wish I had been implementing it since the first day I started high school career.
Professionalism is an elusive concept, which is defined as having a set of attributes and competence to behave specific to professions. It ‘s a very basic definition; but acting professional is quite complex. Professionalism can only be developed and strengthened over time. Acting professional consists of various and fundamental key components, such as the way you conduct yourself in a workplace, if you are using good judgement, having courteous behavior and properly portraying yourself. Recent research done by the Center for Professional Excellence at York College of Pennsylvania indicates that levels of professionalism have declined during the last five years. Researchers say the decline is caused by a “too casual attitude” when doing things, and not being self-driven. The decline will inevitably cause damage to modern society. (Cite source)Therefor action must be taken to alert the oblivious individuals as well as restore the negative slope. “I believe that no one can teach you how to act, but schools do give you an environment to make mistakes, to learn techniques and to learn professionalism” said Enrico Colanti. Professionalism can and should be used by everyone; students usually get a head start practising these skills in a professional context, the experience leads to a smoother transition to the world of employ after High School. So what are the different ways of being professional?
The qualities of professional skill are,
1. Competency
2. Responsibility
3. Appearance
4. Communication
5. Behavior
A true professional posses a number of characteristics, the first being the way he or she present themselves. Perception matters, people with ability, skill and talent may not be taken as serious, if he or she is dressed unprofessionally. Immediate judgments are made entirely based on appearance, voice and manners. Rachel Gordon, a sociology professor at the University of Illinois did a research study and noted that kids who were better looking reported higher levels of teacher attention, more friends and less depression. Not to mention that you will feel great about yourself, you’re attracting positive energy, which in return boosts your self- confidence. Therefore you should present yourself professional, stay from anything inappropriate; no sexual content, violent or drug/alcohol promoting. Thirty years ago, dark three piece suits symbolized prosperity and productivity, now people seem to think jeans and a white shirt will do the trick. Now you don’t need to show up to school on a casual Monday wearing business attire. Now on the other hand if you have an important powerpoint to present, dress sharp. You may hear a few snickers from people, but remember you are displaying professional etiquette as well as raising the bar for other.
Another important characteristic of professionalism is competency; which means the individual is able to take action at anytime, because they are reliable. The person who exhibits professionalism will not only use competency, they use it in combination with responsibility and adaptability. Any task given to them or is being worked on, can be counted on being finished with efficiency. There is no time for making excuses for professionalism, the time is used for focusing on finding solutions. The person who is displaying the skill is punctual but understands that things may take a turn sometimes. When it does, the individual will remain calm and not blame other people for their mistakes nor blame the unfortunate circumstances.
Because professionalism is a skill that is developed and strengthened over time, a large amount of mastery comes from learning. Learning through experience, watching other people’s professionalism, or from their teachers; who are required to use professionalism everyday in a school environment. Therefor communication becomes even more vital than it already is. A true professional can initiate a quality conversation with all members involved in education; administration, faculty members, teachers, parents, as well as other students. When a student does this, they are hopefully practicing professionalism regardless of who they are conversing with is. In return, they become well-informed and respectful.
As a professional, you are expected to show professional behavior in a school environment and the workforce. As I mentioned earlier, I have a pretty good understanding of what anger is, and what anger feels like. As well as others, especially teenagers. Many things in life, will get you mad, BUT it’s very important to never express your anger. By using professionalism, you’re forced to accept boundaries. Crossing a boundary can be defined as two parties that have different views, but the person who is crossing the boundary, chooses to act in their best interest. Usually, by being judgmental. A way to resolve this, is by thinking everything through. Before making a decision, carefully consider everything.
Written by Oleksandr (Alex) Grytsyk
Written by Oleksandr (Alex) Grytsyk