?? 3 Things To Consider As You Graduate College ??

As I witness students’ excitement and anxiety this graduation season, I can’t help but reflect on my journey since graduating college. Here are three essential lessons that have shaped my career and brought me to where I am today. These insights have been instrumental in helping me navigate the ever-changing professional landscape. Of course, I have to give a major thank you + shout out to personal and professional mentors that helped me connect these dots and support me along the way. So, here they are:

1???Don’t feel bound by your major or degree. ??

• When I walked across the stage with my Criminology & Law degree from 美国佛罗里达大学 , I had a passion for the subject and was deeply engaged in my studies during undergrad. But, little did I know, my career path would take me on a different trajectory as I got a taste of other industries. In college, while studying as a pre-law student, I found myself working at 苹果 as an iOS Product Advisor, assisting customers with their tech needs and learning about the world of technology. Interestingly, this experience led me to land a full-time sales role as an Account Executive at Gartner before graduation. Both of these roles had almost nothing to do with what I studied, but they allowed me to discover new skills, broaden my horizons, and grow both personally and professionally. Remember, while you should pursue a major that aligns with your interests and goals, it doesn’t have to define your career options. Think creatively,?be open-minded, and embrace the opportunities that come your way, even if they don’t align with your degree.

2?? Learning doesn’t stop when you graduate. ??

• The moment you receive your diploma doesn’t mark the end of your learning journey; it’s only the beginning! There are multiple avenues to continue learning and expanding your knowledge base. Self-learning has been a game-changer for me. Whether it’s through reading books, networking (especially informational interviewing), taking online courses, and/or leveraging free resources offered by your alma mater (especially while you still have SSO access!), never stop seeking knowledge. Personally, I found tremendous value in accessing? Lynda.com ?for free, thanks to the partnership between UF and the platform. Additionally, remember that workplace learning is invaluable. The sales training I received at Gartner far surpassed anything I learned in a classroom about sales and marketing. Finally, consider the possibility of pursuing graduate school. It can open doors and provide a deeper level of expertise in your field. If the cost is a concern, explore working (even if it’s part-time) at an organization that offers tuition reimbursement/matching programs.

3?? Can’t find what you love? Start something!???

• Sometimes, the perfect job or opportunity doesn’t come knocking on your door right after graduation. If you find yourself dissatisfied with your prospects, take the initiative and consider starting something of your own. Even a part-time side hustle can be a fertile ground for gaining experience and exploring your passions (beyond providing you with some income). Becoming an entrepreneur allows you to shape your own destiny and gain valuable skills along the way. Your entrepreneurial spirit can set you apart and open unexpected doors. And don’t be afraid of failure! Many organizations will credit you for the courage and tenacity required to take that leap – failure in the startup world can often be looked at as a badge of honor.

In closing, as you embark on your post-college journey, remember that your major doesn’t define your destiny. Keep learning – independently, within the workplace, and/or through grad school – to stay ahead in a fast-paced world. And if you can’t find your dream job, don’t hesitate to create your own path. Believe in yourself, take risks, and embrace the mystery of what lies ahead for you!