The first year of college is one of the most stressful things a young adult can experience. For many, it is their first time away from home and taking care of themselves. With this new-found freedom, it is very easy to lose sight of the reasons why they are in college. With my freshman year under my belt, I’ve realized that the secret to success isn’t just about acing your exams or partying hard (although, let’s be real, those things are important too!). It’s about something much more valuable: building relationships and staying true to your purpose. Trust me, it’s crucial to stay focused and intentional about building your network and staying connected to your goals.
Many students don’t realize how important it is to network in college. You are surrounded by future leaders. It is important to build those connections with your peers sooner rather than later. It’s also very important to connect with your professors! One of the biggest mistakes I made in the beginning was thinking I had to do everything on my own. I tried to tackle every assignment, club, and social event solo without asking for help or support. I quickly realized that it wasn’t sustainable or necessary. By surrounding myself with people who supported and encouraged me, I was able to achieve more than I thought possible. And that’s what I want to pass on to you: the importance of building relationships, seeking help when you need it, and leaning on others to help you achieve your goals.
So, how do you actually build this network and stay focused on your goals?
For me, it started with being intentional about the clubs and organizations I joined. Instead of just signing up for everything that sounded vaguely interesting, I chose a few groups that aligned with my passions and values. Among these groups, my involvement with the National Association of Black Accountants proved to be transformative as I went from a member to the social media chair of the executive board, creating valuable connections and an amazing support system that has helped guide my academic and professional success. I also forced myself to step out of my comfort zone and strike up conversations with people I didn’t know – whether it was a classmate, a professor, or a guest speaker. By taking these small steps, I began to build a community of people who supported and encouraged me.
I was hesitant to attend a career development seminar, thinking it would be just another dull lecture. That event, however, turned out to be a game-changer. That’s where I met Cassandra, an experienced business professional who would become my mentor. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect from having a mentor, but Cassandra’s guidance and support have helped me grow in various areas. She’s pushed me to explore new interests, refine my skills, and apply for many new opportunities. Cassandra has been a constant source of encouragement and wisdom, helping me to stay focused on my goals and reminding me why I started college in the first place. Thanks to her, my freshman year has been transformed from a mere academic exercise to a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Over the past year, I learned that success isn’t just about achieving good grades or landing a coveted internship but about building meaningful relationships, staying true to your purpose, and creating a foundation for future success. My hope is by sharing my experiences and insights, other students will be inspired to approach their own freshman year with intentionality, purpose, and a commitment to building a strong network of peers, mentors, and friends. Remember, the connections you make and the memories you create during these four years will stay with you for a lifetime. So, get out there, take risks, embrace challenges, and make the most of this incredible journey. You’ve got this!
Katheryn’s Top Tips for Freshmen
Get Involved on Campus: Join clubs, volunteer, or take on a part-time job. It’s a great way to meet people and build your resume.
Embrace Networking: Attend career events, join clubs, and connect with people in your field. You never know who might become a valuable mentor or friend.
Be Patient and Kind to Yourself: Freshman year can be challenging. Remember that it’s okay to make mistakes and that you’re growing and learning every day.
Seek Help When Needed: Don’t struggle in silence. Reach out to professors, advisors, or mentors for guidance and support.
Explore, Don’t Settle: Try new things, explore new interests, and don’t be afraid to change your mind.
Be Conscious of Your Friend Group: Make sure to surround yourself with people who are like-minded academically and have goals.
Be Open-Minded: Don’t be afraid to try new things and explore different interests. You might discover a new passion.
Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for exercise, meditation, and relaxation. Your mental health matters.
Stay True to Yourself: Don’t lose sight of why you started college in the first place. Stay focused on your goals and passions.
Seek Out Mentorship: Find someone who believes in you and can offer guidance and support. It can make all the difference in your freshman year!