NCVs and Me

The case studies in Tuesday's class got me thinking about noncognitive variables (NCVs) and where I fit. The NCVs according to Sedlacek are as follows:

1. Positive self-concept
2. Realistic self-appraisal
3. Successfully handling the system
4. Preference for long-term goals
5. Availability of a strong support person
6. Leadership experience
7. Community involvement
8. Knowledge acquired in a field

The variables I struggle with are #1 and #2. #3 - #8 I have in spades, with a supportive adviser and strong community ties. Additionally, I've worked at MSU for 10 years and was a student for three years before that, so navigating the system is not difficult for me. I do struggle with my positive self-concept from time to time, wondering if my work is up to the standards of a PhD-level program, always wondering if I'm thinking at a deep enough level, and wondering if I'm "cut out" to survive in academia with my silly disposition.

This self-concept also affects my ability to perform a realistic self-appraisal. I swing wildly between "I've got this covered and don't need help" to "Wow, I'm lost and am obviously failing every assignment and just don't know it yet." I understand that part of my struggle hinges on my own quirks, my desire for constant evolution of thinking and my competitive perfectionistic ways of thinking. I'm a bit nuts. But, I can't be the only one at MSU, even in this cohort, who feels this way can I?

Thinking of these things through the lens of admissions, specifically undergraduate admissions, it would seem that units implementing NCVs as a dimension for consideration would find themselves with a more grounded, confident student base from a variety of backgrounds, possessing a vast array of talents, motivations and goals. As the semester progresses, I plan to do more investigation into NCVs, thinking of them from a course design perspective.