I recently stumbled across an article from Business Insider recounting advice from John Stankey, the CEO of AT&T.[1] The advice was for young professionals to think of their careers in four- to five-year chapters and to focus on skill development and self-education in each chapter.[2]

The article specifically focused on the changes in technology and business models, but the advice made me pause. Should I be thinking of my career in ASP in the same way? I think so. With changes to bar licensure, AI, and student needs, the need to grow and adapt is ever-present in academic and bar support programs. In order to meet our students’ changing needs, we must also focus on our own development.

 As I look toward the new year, I find myself asking: What chapter am I in now? And just as importantly: What skills am I intentionally cultivating for the chapter ahead?

In ASP, it’s easy to become absorbed in the daily work of supporting students – meeting with them, designing workshops, analyzing data, coordinating programs. All of that work matters deeply. But if we want to keep serving students with clarity and purpose, we also need to step back and invest in ourselves with the same dedication we ask of them.

For me, that means embracing new learning curves rather than avoiding them. It means staying curious about emerging tools, examining how students’ habits and stressors are evolving, and seeking training or mentorship that helps me show up stronger. It means giving myself permission to rethink old assumptions, experiment with new approaches, and bring fresh energy to my work.

And it also means recognizing that each chapter deserves its own theme. Maybe one chapter is about becoming a better teacher. Maybe the next is about program design or leadership. Maybe another is about understanding new technologies or developing a more trauma-informed lens. Whatever the focus, being intentional about our growth creates space for the kind of transformation that ripples outward to students.

As we enter this new chapter, I hope you’ll take a moment to reflect on your own journey: what you’ve learned, what you’re proud of, and what you want to build next. And if you’re a student reading this, know that we’re on this path with you. We are learning, adapting, and growing alongside you because your success fuels our purpose.

Here’s to a year of thoughtful development, renewed commitment, and the courage to keep turning the page.

(Dayna Smith)

[1] Shubhangi Goel, AT&T CEO Says That Young People Should Think About Their Careers in 4- to 5-Year Chapters (Dec. 4, 2025), https://www.businessinsider.com/att-ceo-john-stankey-career-advice-young-people-college-tech-2025-12.

[2] The article went on to question the value of formal education with the increase in AI. I feel the need to state the obvious that I believe formal education is valuable for professional growth.