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Jan. 20, 2026
Daylight: 5:40:20
Wow, can you believe one week is behind us already? Time flies!
As we dive into week two, I want to share something that can really change how we
handle challenges and pursue our goals: the growth mindset. This is a nice term for
how we learn from failure. Do we learn from our stumbles, or do we walk away defeated?
A growth mindset is a way of thinking about how our abilities, intelligence and talents
can be developed through dedication and hard work. It’s about seeing challenges not
as roadblocks, but as opportunities to grow and learn. It is about how we think about
our future selves and our control over who we are becoming. While it’s natural to
feel stuck or frustrated at times, the growth mindset reminds us that effort and persistence
can lead to improvement and new possibilities.
This past weekend, I spent time working on something where my skills weren’t where
they needed to be for me to be happy with the outcome (carpentry). The experience
was a clear reminder of the growth mindset in action. Learning a new skill often involves
repeated setbacks, moments of frustration, and the temptation to give up. Progress
rarely feels smooth at first. However, with patience and persistence, those early
struggles can gradually turn into confidence and capability. Over time, what once
felt difficult, frustrating, or even humiliating, can become enjoyable, offering a
new way of thinking and a fresh perspective on what is possible.
Why is this important?
Along your journey at UAF, challenges are inevitable. Whether it’s mastering a tough
course, navigating relationships, or planning for life after graduation, there will
be moments when you struggle and stumble. A growth mindset encourages you to embrace
these moments, knowing that every setback or failure is a step toward your ultimate
success.
Here are a few ways to cultivate a growth mindset:
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Embrace challenges – See them as opportunities to learn rather than obstacles.
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Learn from feedback – Use constructive criticism to grow rather than take it personally.
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Celebrate effort – Success is about progress, not perfection.
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Be inspired by others – Instead of comparing yourself, let the success of others motivate you.
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Practice self-compassion – Growth takes time; be kind to yourself as you learn and adapt.
We at UAF are here to support you in developing this mindset. Whether it’s through
academic resources, student organizations, or conversations with peers and mentors,
you’re part of a community that values perseverance and growth. Take advantage of
these opportunities, jump in, challenge yourself, and celebrate the little victories along the way!
Remember, the journey to success is rarely a straight line. There will be setbacks.
There will be moments when you have to brush yourself off, regroup, and keep going,
as well as moments when you can laugh with others about the mistakes you made along
the way. Risk and reward are part of the joy of our journey — part of the very nature
of learning.
Welcome to week two of the spring 2026 term. This is how you do it. One week at a
time. Hang in there. I wish you a week of growth and discovery.
Things to do:
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Pay your student account bill before Jan. 30. If you aren’t 100% certain everything
is paid and complete, make sure to check in with Financial Aid or the Bursar’s Office.
If your bill isn’t paid by Jan. 30, you may receive a late fee and holds for future
registration changes on your account – so it is worth making sure this step is complete.
If you need financial help, help is available. Email uaf-financialaid@alaska.edu, call 907-474-7256 or drop by 107 Eielson to meet with a financial aid advisor.
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Check out for all kinds of things happening within our community.
I would love to hear about your secret sauce to success. Drop me a note at obguthrie@alaska.edu.
— Owen Guthrie, vice chancellor for student affairs and enrollment management
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