When I started college, I had no roadmap. Both of my parents went to college in a different country, so I couldn’t rely on them for advice about majors, internships, or navigating campus resources. I had to figure everything out on my own. It was overwhelming at first, but it also pushed me to start asking questions and taking initiative early.
One of the best things I did was take advantage of campus workshops that helped me build my resume. Even when I felt like I didn’t have much to add, those sessions helped me see how classes, volunteering, and part-time jobs could count as experience. Joining clubs was also a game-changer. Many organizations offer mentorship, leadership roles, or even one-on-one resume help from upperclassmen. UW has tons of student orgs you can explore through the Wisconsin Involvement Network (WIN), which makes it easy to find a group that matches your interests.
The biggest tip I have is to talk to people. Career fairs might sound intimidating, but they’re full of people who want to help—whether it’s offering advice, a summer opportunity, or sharing insight into a field you’ve never considered. Even quick conversations with professors or guest speakers can lead to helpful connections.
You don’t need to have your entire career figured out in your first year. Taking small steps early makes a big difference. Show up, ask questions, and use the resources around you. You might be figuring things out on your own, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it alone.
