Starting college is exciting — but also a bit overwhelming, especially when you start thinking about your future career. As a fellow UW-Madison student, I want to share some tips to help you get a jumpstart and make the most of your time here.
Explore Early and Often
Don’t wait until your last year to start thinking about your major or career—but also don’t feel like you have to decide right away. You have plenty of time to explore different classes and interests. It’s totally normal if you haven’t found the “perfect” fit yet, so don’t get discouraged. College is all about trying new things and figuring out what clicks for you.
Network Like a Pro
Networking might sound scary, but it’s all about making real connections. Chat with your professors, join clubs that match your interests, and don’t miss out on campus career fairs. Most people love to help students who show enthusiasm — so just start the conversation!
Make Your Summers Count
Summer breaks aren’t just for fun (though that’s important too!). Try to find internships, volunteer gigs, or jobs that tie into what you want to do. Even if it’s not the “perfect” job, you’ll pick up skills like teamwork, responsibility, and time management that employers love. The more you show interest in your desired career, so will future employers!
Keep Track and Reflect
Save notes on what you’re learning about yourself and your goals. This will make things way easier when you start applying for internships or jobs — and it’ll help you see how much you’ve grown! Starting early, staying curious, and putting yourself out there can make all the difference. College is the best time to discover what you love and figure out how to turn it into a career. Sometimes choosing the random class, or joining that club may lead you to discover something you’d never find yourself doing!
