Rendon's Validation Theory

As I reflect and reminisce upon the obstacles that I had to conquer to get to this point in my life, I can honestly say that I have come a long way. However, even though there were many obstacles in my way, I appreciate and value my past experiences because they have molded me into the person I am becoming. I often tell myself, there is a beauty in the struggle, and I say this because one seems to appreciate things more after having to work so hard to obtain them. Education and the experiences I have come across during my academic journey have certainly contributed to my development as a person. As a result, one begins to question things as well as develop the courage to also question authority. Therefore, one also starts to think more critically …show more content…
Rendon (1994) introduced validation theory with particular applicability to low-income, first-generation students enrolled in higher education. Rendon (1994) defined non-traditional students as those from “diverse racial/ethnic and cultural backgrounds who often doubt their academic ability” (p. 33). However, validation theory offered a new approach that instructors, counselors, academic affairs staff and all other professional faculty can use to validate students and acknowledge that they are capable of succeeding in a college environment. Rendon (1994) defines “validation is an enabling, confirming and supportive process initiated by in and out of class agents that foster academic and interpersonal development”(p. …show more content…
My counselor asked me what was my plan moving forward after graduating, I had no clue, I thought after earning an A.A. degree I would start looking for a job. However, my counselor quickly disputed that believe, he basically told me you are more than ready to transfer to a university and continue to pursue higher education. Therefore, I was challenged to avoid settling for an A.A. degree and rather continue to pursue higher education. Hence, my counselor made me realize that I was ready for this new journey that I was about to encounter. I knew that if I needed support I could count on my counselor. The combination of being challenged and having the support helped me understand and develop my own sense of identity. I started to accept that fact that I was capable of taking on this challenge and succeeding. Overall, it contributed to my growth because I began viewing myself in a more positive way as well as having the confidence to continue my