When I arrived at UW-Madison, “professional development” sounded like something reserved for juniors with LinkedIn Premium and business cards. But looking back, freshman year was the perfect time to start. My best advice? Explore early and often. You don’t have to commit to a major right away, I didn’t, but start attending events that pique Read More…
Making Friends in College: A Mindset & Some Luck
Making connections in college is largely about mindset and openness. Students who approach social situations with positivity and confidence are more likely to form meaningful relationships. Rather than worrying about whether others will like them or assuming everyone already has a friend group, it’s more effective to enter a space thinking, “Look at how many Read More…
It’s Okay to Change Your Mind
The best advice I can give to anyone is this: don’t be afraid to explore, even if it doesn’t fit perfectly into your DARS four-year plan. Trying new classes, even the ones outside your major can help you figure out what you actually want to do for the rest of your life because choosing a Read More…
Step into That Elevator: Forming Connections at UW Madison
It was the first week of freshman year, and while unpacking, my roommate texted me to meet her in her friend’s dorm across campus. I was so nervous about showing up alone and meeting new people that I hesitated in front of the elevator, considering heading back to my dorm. I’m so grateful I didn’t, Read More…
Locking In Without Burning Out: Real Freshman Advice
The following Freshman Tips are tips that I believe are necessary for any Freshman wanting wisdom from someone that has already been through it. The next few tips aren’t cohesive to one another; however, I am highlighting them because they each played an important role in helping me navigate my freshman year successfully. Find a Read More…
Freshman Advice: Professional Development is the College Experience
As an incoming junior, professional development is something that I have always thought about, but found myself unintentionally doing. While most college freshmen may be stressing about how to stay productive on this manner, I am here to reassure you that it will come in almost everything that you do! For one, networking is the Read More…
How To Choose an Engineering Major Without Sacrificing Your Sanity
Congratulations! You just accepted your place at the UW College of Engineering! You’ve made a great decision and don’t worry if you feel overwhelmed. As an electrical engineering major who just faced some of the same challenges during my freshman year, I’m here to give you my top three tips to set you up for Read More…
3 Great Ways to Find Your Niche at UW-Madison
The best way to beat the freshman blues is to find a group of people you mesh well with, your “niche” if you will. I’m going to outline the best ways for you to explore the activities at your new home away from home, and find people to enjoy them with! 1. Join Clubs or Read More…
College Is Hard
Finding your place at UW Madison is difficult. I am an incoming senior and I don’t feel like I fully know where I belong yet. In my opinion, the idea of finding a perfect niche where once you find it all your problems will be solved is a fantasy. That being said, finding people to Read More…
Finding Your People at UW–Madison
When I first arrived at UW–Madison, I had this image in my head of instantly finding my group—laughing in the dining hall, walking to class together, and staying up late talking about life. What actually happened was a lot of wandering around campus solo, trying to figure out where I fit in. But eventually, I Read More…