Bryant Galmes - Reflection #2

 🌟 Introduction

For our second round of group presentations, the topics felt much more relevant to real life. The themes, education, mental health, and career readiness, weren’t just ideas from a textbook; they reflected what most of us are experiencing right now. Each group looked at a different aspect of how support systems influence our futures, whether through schools, families, jobs, or mental health.

As I listened to each group, I noticed how everything connected. If education isn’t working, it impacts career paths. If mental health isn’t supported, it affects everything. These weren’t just presentations; they were real conversations about the challenges young people face today.

📚Group 1: Economy and Potential Careers

Group 1 started by looking at how the economy affects the jobs we chase and the education paths we follow. What struck me was their connection between economic factors like inflation, unemployment, and student debt with career choices. Many students worry about how to select a job that is both meaningful and financially stable.

One part I liked was when they discussed hot careers. Fields like healthcare and tech that are rapidly expanding. They were honest about it. Even popular careers can be tough to enter, especially when the economy is struggling or if you lack the right resources to prepare.

They also talked about self-perception. How independent versus interdependent mindsets affect how we work and communicate. I hadn’t considered this before, but it makes sense. Our self-image can influence everything from how we write resumes to how we fit into a team.

Group 1 wrapped up with practical tools for job seekers, such as job fairs, the JOBS Act, and local workforce programs. This made their presentation feel relevant and focused on what we really need to know as we plan for our futures.

🧑‍🏫 Group 2 – Families and Education (Our group)

Our group focused on how families and government support systems shape education. I was in charge of the part that explored what local, state, and national leaders can do to improve schools—and where things are still falling short.

Our group focused on how families and government support systems influence education. I handled the section that examined what local, state, and national leaders can do to improve schools and where they are still falling short.

One issue I covered was the digital divide. Many schools still lack access to reliable internet or modern technology, especially in rural or underfunded areas. It’s unfair that in 2025, some students are still using broken computers and outdated books.

I also discussed teacher burnout. More testing, increased responsibilities, and larger class sizes are pushed onto educators without enough pay or support. This results in high turnover, so students don’t get the consistency they need in the classroom.

Mental health was another key topic. Although people are more open about it now, many schools still lack enough counselors or trained staff. Students dealing with anxiety or depression often have nowhere to turn.

For solutions, I suggested ways each level of government could help:

• Local leaders could expand on-campus mental health centers and partner with nonprofits to bring better technology into classrooms.
• States should raise teacher salaries and invest in training that helps educators meet today’s needs, such as handling digital tools and diverse learning styles.
• Nationally, I advocated for policies like universal pre-K, consistent education standards, and making practical skills, such as financial literacy and digital literacy, have a bigger focus in high school.

Finally, I spoke about how schools need to change. We can’t keep relying on outdated systems that don’t prepare students for a world filled with AI, social media, and constant change. Schools should teach media literacy and use project-based learning that builds real-world skills. Most importantly, students need a voice in their own education through surveys, advisory boards, or classroom feedback.

🧩 Group 3: Mental Health and Social Life

Group 3’s topic was mental health, and they approached it with care and honesty. They started by defining common mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and explained how these issues often get overlooked.

What stood out most was how they normalized the conversation. Mental health still carries a lot of stigma, especially among young people, but they helped make it feel like something we can talk about. They explained that mental health isn’t something you just get over, it takes real attention and support.

They also shared helpful strategies and resources, like the SAMHSA helpline, the Crisis Text Line, and NAMI support groups. Plus, they gave some solid advice on daily habits like journaling, setting limits with screen time, and staying connected with others.

One thing they emphasized that stuck with me was that mental health isn’t just about crisis, but about maintenance. Just like you’d take care of your body, you need to check in with your mind. That message felt really important in a college setting where stress and burnout are common.

✨ Final Thoughts

All three presentations felt like different pieces of the same puzzle. Group 1 showed us how the economy affects our future careers. Group 3 reminded us that mental health is the foundation for everything. Our group argued that if education doesn’t keep up with the world around us, students will be left behind. 

What I took away from this discussion is that change must happen at every level—in the classroom, at home, and in policy. It’s not just about major reforms; it’s also about listening to students, supporting teachers, and ensuring everyone has the tools they need to succeed.

Doing this presentation made me more aware of the kind of world we’re entering and what it will take to build a better one.