Goal-Setting for Success: Integrating Physical and Academic Growth at NECSTLab

Laura Ginestretti, Andrea Alberti, Marco D. Santambrogio

Abstract: At NECSTLab, Politecnico di Milano, the focus is on developing students not just as engineers but as individuals with a balanced approach to mental and physical health. Key among these life skills is goal setting, helping students define clear objectives and systematically pursue them for both academic and personal success. Goal-setting is incorporated across various dimensions: CrossFit Training, Spartan Races, and Academic Goals. NECSTLab integrates CrossFit, emphasizing measurable, achievable goals. Students track their progress, striving for constant improvement, which cultivates resilience and a continuous growth mindset. Through Spartan races, students set personal goals and measure progress, learning to reflect on strengths and weaknesses while preparing with structured, measurable objectives. Ultimately, NECSTLab equips students to set and achieve measurable goals, fostering adaptability, endurance, and growth in both their studies and broader life pursuits.