Getting a head start on your career during your freshman year of college can seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can lay a strong foundation for your future. Here are some key strategies that I have learned and developed that can help you start building towards your dream career.
Networking is so crucial. Joining clubs, attending career fairs, and connecting with upperclassmen, professors, and alumni has helped me develop connections that have led to new opportunities in the career world. LinkedIn is an excellent platform to start professional networking! Remember, who you know can be just as important as what you know.
Use your first year to explore different subjects and discover what interests you. Speak with professors, attend department events, and take a variety of gen-eds. Take your time and don’t stress about finding a major right away! It is important that you find something that you are both good at and you enjoy. Your freshman year is about discovering yourself, and as long as you prioritize school, you will find something up your alley.
Take the leaps. Look for internships, volunteer opportunities, and part-time jobs related to your field of interest. These experiences will enhance your resume and provide you with a clearer sense of your career path. Building your credibility is crucial.
During my freshman year, I wasn’t as social and hadn’t discovered myself yet. Don’t worry! You are already taking great steps towards your desired career, so remember to have fun and live in the moment! You are only a freshman in college once!