# Freshman Focus Session Script ## Warm-Up and Rapport (5 minutes) Counselor: “Hi [Student Name], I’m really glad you’re here today. How has your week been so far? Is there anything fun or interesting you’d like to share?”
Possible follow-up: “That sounds great—tell me more about that!”

Counselor: “Thank you for sharing. Before we dive in, I want you to know that everything we talk about stays between us—this is a safe, confidential space. Today, we’ll focus on three things: getting to know your strengths and challenges (self-awareness), setting some goals you care about, and exploring strategies to help you manage stress. Sound good?”

Counselor: “Alright, let’s get started!” ## Self-Awareness Activity (10 minutes) Counselor: “I’m going to give you the [Freshman Self-Awareness Questionnaire](#freshman-self-awareness-questionnaire). Take a moment to read each question and write whatever comes to mind—there are no right or wrong answers.”

*Hand the student the questionnaire*

Counselor (after 3–4 minutes): “Which question stood out to you as most interesting or surprising?”
• If student shares a strength: “That’s a great strength—how have you noticed it help you at school or at home?”
• If student shares a challenge: “I hear you. What makes this subject/task tough for you? Have you tried anything before that has helped even a little?”
Counselor: “You mentioned you learn best by [student’s learning style]. How might we use that to make things a bit easier when you’re studying or doing homework?”

Counselor: “Thank you for being honest—this helps us understand how you tick and what areas we can build on.” ## Goal Setting (7 minutes) Counselor: “Next, let’s turn those insights into a clear goal. Here’s the [Freshman Goal Setting Worksheet](#freshman-goal-setting-worksheet). We’ll use the SMART framework so your goal is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.”

*Hand the student the worksheet*

Counselor: “Think of one thing you’d really like to accomplish this month—maybe it’s improving a grade, forming a study habit, or managing your time. What comes to mind?”
• As student proposes a goal, guide them: “Great. Let’s make it specific: exactly what will you do?”
• Then ask: “How will you measure your progress—what counts as success?”
• Then: “Why is this goal important to you right now?”
• Finally: “By when would you like to have this done?”
Counselor: “Now, list 2–3 small action steps you can start right away and identify who or what can help you.”
Counselor: “Perfect. You’ve set a strong SMART goal. If you have time, we can jot down a second one; if not, we’ll save it for next time.” ## Coping Strategy Exploration (5 minutes) Counselor: “Last part—let’s pick a couple of tools to help you when you’re stressed or overwhelmed. Here’s the [Coping Strategy Card Deck](#freshman-coping-strategy-cards). Shuffle the cards and pick two that really stand out.”

*Student selects two cards*

Counselor: “I see you chose **[Card Name 1]** and **[Card Name 2]**. Let’s talk about the first one. When do you think you might use **[Card Name 1]**? Walk me through step by step.”
• Follow-up: “What might get in the way of trying it? How could you remind yourself to do it?”
Counselor: “Now, for **[Card Name 2]**, how could you fit that into your week? What will signal to you, ‘This is a moment to try this strategy’?”

Counselor: “Excellent choices. You now have practical ways to calm down and stay focused when things feel tough.” ## Wrap-Up and Next Steps (3 minutes) Counselor: “Let’s review what we’ve covered today.”
• “Your key strength and challenge insights.”
• “Your SMART goal: *[read goal back]*.”
• “Your two coping strategies: *[Card Name 1]* and *[Card Name 2]*.”

Counselor: “To keep this going, I’d like you to use the [Personal Reflection Journal Template](#personal-reflection-journal-template) each evening. Write down how you used your strategy and any progress on your goal.”

Counselor: “I’m here for you—let’s plan to check in on this goal and these strategies next week. How does meeting on **[Day] at [Time]** sound?”

Counselor: “Thank you, [Student Name]. You did fantastic work today. Remember, you can always drop by or send me a message if you want to talk before then. Have a great rest of your day!”

Allison

1 Lessons

Freshman Focus Session

1 Lessons

Freshman Focus Session