Who Said Life After College Was Easy?
BOC Contributor: Danielle Peteet
Four (maybe five, six and yes EVEN seven) years of finals, ramen noodles, psychotic
roommates and boyfriends, overbearing professors and you prepare to pay fees and
mail announcements. You’re graduating college now the hard work begins! No need to
be startled because in your struggles you’ll discover the next five years to probably be
the best years of your life. This is your time to explore the unknown, make mistakes,
bounce back and shine. And I promise no one will judge you. Whether your next chapter
lands you in graduate school or working with Miranda Priestly (Google her), remember
to just enjoy the ride.
When I graduated undergrad, I had this delusion that I was going to make one hundred
zillion dollars with zero experience. I turned down great opportunities that in hindsight
could have turned into fantastic careers. After acing multiple interviews, a couple of
potential employers told me they “saw a future with me at their company and wanted to
develop me. I politely declined those jobs because they weren’t talking the money talk, I
wanted to hear. Those opportunities could have turned into dream jobs. While I didn’t
get “that” job out of college the objective should have been centered on getting
experience and training from a seasoned professional which segues to my next point,
obtaining a mentor.
This applies not only to college graduates but to ALL students. It’s simple, build yourself
a network though relationships you cultivate. Find someone you admire and create an
opportunity to develop a relationship with them. If you must, join a professional
organization, they’re apart of or bump into them at the Starbucks they frequent (not
stalking) then do so. Strike up a conversation and make yourself memorable. Nine time
out of ten they will want to get to know and assist you. My experiences have been that
people are more apt to help develop you when you are in vulnerable situations as
opposed to a middle management career changer. Seize the opportunity of your youth.
Your confusion and explorative nature is adorable at this point. In the case that you do
not have the opportunity to see the person you can incorporate that person in a class
project. Humanity classes come in handy for times like this and if they are in the
industry that mirrors your major even better. Send them an email or LinkedIn message
explaining the nature of the message and for an interview. None the less be creative,
assertive, professional and prepared.
Remember your life is just beginning and there will be myriads of opportunities.
For those who know exactly what they want and how they’re going to get it great. For
those who don’t know what they want to do and if they’re coming or going that’s great
too. There will be hurdles for all!
What are some ways you can demonstrate that you’re a BOSS right now? Tweet us at @BOSSOnCampus and let us know.