Let’s hop right in…

1. Networking is huge
2. Don’t stress about your grades too much
3. It’s okay to stay in
4. Take advantage of the services on campus
5. Ask questions

1. Networking is HUGE

You hear it all the time – “you just have to know the right people.” Well, I am here to tell you that it’s true. Having connections, building strong relationships, and having references get you a lot further than good grades and certificates. I wish this was stressed to me more as I first entered college because I didn’t realize how important this was until my junior year. That year, I learned that almost 80% of new employees are hired through word of mouth… 80%!!

My advice: make going-out friends, make friends within your major, job shadow a TON, and ask your professors questions. Go to the club meetings (even if you’re by yourself!), attend the free seminar, go to the campus movie night. Whatever it is – step out of your comfort zone and make connections.

2. Don’t stress about your grades too much

This is coming from your stereotypical straight-A student who would freak out if she got anything less. (I cried when I got my first B in a class :,)))) It’s fine. I laugh about it now. After graduating, however, I learned that unless you plan to go to grad school, the odds of someone asking for your gpa is slim! So in the end it’s not worth so much stress and anxiety.

I will add one thing – being so anal about my grades and involvement did help me land $10,000+ in scholarships throughout college. I think good grades have perks, but the amount of stress you put on yourself shouldn’t be so strong.

3. It’s okay to stay in

THIS. ha. The first two years of college I had the worst FOMO and didn’t realize that I had power in choosing how I wanted to spend my weekends. If your college is anything like mine, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays were the same…every…. single… weekend. Then on days where I wasn’t in the mood, I’d force myself to continue this weekly cycle. 

My advice: If you need a night in, it’s okay to stay back – you are not a party pooper. You are not lame. You are not a bump on a log. You are self-aware and just not in the mood.

4. Take advantage of the services on campus

My sophomore year I dug deep into my student bill (out of pure curiosity) and jeez, you would not believe the types of things you get charged for!! $5 here $10 there $1.60 for this little thing. I am not here to complain about those charges, but to tell you to UTILIZE them! Take advantage and use them to further your knowledge, your health, your network, and so many other areas. 

My favorite example is counseling. I was worried about paying for counseling before I started going, but learned it was 100% free for students who pay tuition. Sure enough, I dug through my bill and there it was a small amount of my tuition paid for that service. Other things my school had were a food pantry, counseling groups, craft nights, free movies, free snacks, and free networking resources. Take advantage because nothing is free in the real world :,)

5. Ask questions

Traditionally, this is something I am awful at,I  but wish so badly I asked more questions in college. Your professors are so knowledgeable and have so many connections, quirky interests, and tips. Pick their brains, ask about the material, and ask for help when you need it.

If you made it to the end, thanks for reading. If not, this was still fun for me to write and reflect on the last four years of my life. Have a great day 🙂 

xx, Carlie