Reason for returning to school

Why I am returning to school

I am returning to school to advance my career and to gain the skills and knowledge I need to be successful in a professional level role. I have been working in the tech industry for the past few years, and I have learned a lot, but I feel like I am plateauing. I want to be able to take on more challenging projects and to have a greater impact on the company. I also want to be able to move into a leadership role.

The Bridges Model of Transition

The Bridges Model of Transition is a framework that can be used to understand and manage the personal and professional changes that people go through when they are transitioning to a new role or situation. The model identifies three stages of transition:

1. Ending: This is the stage where you let go of the old way of doing things and the old identity. It can be a time of sadness, grief, and uncertainty.
2. Neutral Zone: This is the stage where you are in between the old and the new. You may feel lost, confused, and restless. This is a time for reflection and self-discovery.
3. New Beginning: This is the stage where you start to embrace the new way of doing things and the new identity. It can be a time of excitement, hope, and possibility.

Where I see myself in the Bridges Model of Transition

I am currently in the Neutral Zone of the Bridges Model of Transition. I am still letting go of the old way of doing things, and I am not yet sure what the new beginning will look like. However, I am excited about the possibilities, and I am confident that I will be able to find a new role that is challenging and rewarding.

Professional skills and characteristics I need to develop

In order to transition to a professional level role, I need to develop the following professional skills and characteristics:

• Technical skills: I need to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends.
• Problem-solving skills: I need to be able to identify and solve complex problems.
• Communication skills: I need to be able to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Leadership skills: I need to be able to motivate and inspire others.
• Teamwork skills: I need to be able to work effectively with others.

Rationale for my response

I have chosen to use the Bridges Model of Transition to reflect on my transition to the professional level role because it is a well-respected model that has been used by many people to successfully manage change. The model provides a framework for understanding the different stages of transition and for developing the skills and characteristics needed to move through the process.

Scholarly source

• Bridges, W. (2000). Managing transitions: Making the most of change. Cambridge, MA: Da Capo Press.

Full reference

Bridges, W. (2000). Managing transitions: Making the most of change. Cambridge, MA: Da Capo Press.