Listen up freshmen!
In a couple weeks, you are going to be leaving the comfort of home for dorm rooms, roommates, and dining halls. You are going to have the time of your life at college, but there are somethings you should know right away that will benefit you in the future.
First off, if you are reading this blog, you are already a head of the game!
When I was a freshmen, I wish I had known the following five things:
- Internships aren’t just for after your junior year. If you know what you are majoring in, or even if you don’t, start gaining experience through internships right away. I know that many internships require that you have junior standing, but there are plenty that don’t have a requirement.
- Get involved in professional societies. I was always one for being involved in organizations, but this is so important that I wanted to emphasis it. Professional organizations will offer you networking (see number 5) and leadership opportunities, access to job boards, and so much more.
- It’s okay to try out different majors before you settle. (But don’t wait too long!) I thought that I had to have a major entering college, so I started off as a business major, which after a year and a half I realized wasn’t for me. I wish I had tried out different major, by taking a variety of classes and getting a feel for what was out there my freshmen year.
- If you have the time, get a part-time job that will increase your skills. Classes come first, but if you are getting the grades and have the time, I definitely recommend getting a part-time job that will give you experience.
- Start networking from the minute you step on campus. Networking isn’t just for those looking for an internship or job. You need to always be making connections and expanding your network. The same applies once you have an internship or a job.
I don’t mean for any of this to scare you. Although you have “plenty of time,” your four years at college will fly by and you need to be thinking about your career now!
What are some things you wished you knew as a freshman in college? Freshmen, is their anything else you would like to know?
