Basic Steps in Transitioning
into a New Environment
By Tom Simpson, BGGA Director of Character Development and College Advisor
Transitioning suggests movement, change and
fluidity. Here at Bishops Gate Golf Academy, we are a
hub of transitioning. Students come from around the
world to stretch themselves, their games and their
mindsets. They grow and develop with the intent to
be the best golfers, students and citizens that they
can be. From here, they are equipped and sent out
to universities and colleges throughout the United
States and around the world. It does not matter if
you are arriving for the first time or returning after
summer break or even going off to college after your
BGGA days, to make your transition easier, remember
the acronym C. O. P. It stands for Change, Opportunity
and Perseverance.
Change always means different. It doesn’t mean
good or bad, it’s just not the same as it used to be.
When we embrace different experiences, cultures,
teachers, coaches and friends we open ourselves up
to the possibilities of growth. The people, places and
experiences that you have encountered have had
a major role in who you are, but now those things
are about to change and different people, places
and experiences are about to come your way. Try to
welcome and learn “the new things”.
Opportunity is all about possibilities. Each student-
athlete at BGGA is given the opportunity “to be the
best you, you can be”. We are designed, at each
area of the academy, to help assist our students to
grow and learn. Our international golf staff and our
state-of-the-art, first-class training facilities have
been assembled to give the greatest opportunity for
improvement to each of our junior golfers. By being
an international golf academy, our students will have
the opportunity to literally make friends from around
the world and culturally learn from their peers. It is
our hope that each student would make the most out
of the opportunities presented to them.
Perseverance is very important in transitioning
because although the initial move is immediate, the
process of transitioning takes time. There are many
things that people need to learn to adjust to, such
as time zones, stroke changes, language, foods,
customs, etiquette and friendships.
Yes, some
areas will naturally come easier in the transitioning
process, but others will be difficult and that is where
perseverance is a necessity. To have the attitude that
you will never give up in any endeavor is invaluable
trait to have.
As one can see, transitioning is a natural
and recurring event in our lives but at times,
especially for teenagers, it can seem a daunting task.
Transitioning can be simple but often is not easy.
We hope that by remembering the acronym C. O. P.:
Change, Opportunity and Perseverance, the transition
will be made with less stress and more enthusiasm.