What is the first step John should take in creating a plan to achieve his long-term goal of graduating with a bachelor's degree?

The first step John should take in creating a plan to achieve his long-term goal of graduating with a bachelor's degree is to reflect on his values. Understanding personal values is crucial as it helps to align academic and career goals with what is truly important to an individual. This reflective process allows John to consider why he wants to obtain a degree, what interests him in his chosen field, and how the degree fits into his broader life aspirations. By establishing these foundational beliefs and priorities, John can create a more meaningful and motivating plan for his education.

In contrast, immediately setting rigid deadlines might create unnecessary pressure and does not take into account his personal context. Researching job opportunities in engineering, while important, should come after he has reflected on his values to ensure that his educational pursuits align with his career aspirations. Consulting multiple advisors is also beneficial, but it is best approached with a clear understanding of his values and goals, which will guide those consultations effectively.