I remind the students of every step that they have taken to get where they are right now and what they have overcome.The stress level of the first call to the school next the interview then the entrance test. The first day of school I go on and on with each new instructor and class how you overcame each item no the menu.
This reflection allows them to look back and say yes that did happen and this is what I did to stay on track to succeed. I often have seniors or recent grads come back and tell the next group that the fight is worth it.