Welcome Class of 2028: The Future is Yours

This is your moment, Class of 2028. We all are eager to see what you will accomplish, and we are here to support and guide you as you begin this amazing journey. As you go through this experience, remember these important points to make the most of your college years and set yourself up for a lifetime of success.

1. Build Connections—Networking Matters

College is not just about lectures and exams! It is also about the relationships you build along the way. These relationships will become your support system, your mentors, and open the doors to future opportunities. The connections you make now—with your classmates, professors, academic and career advisors, alumni, and potential employers—will be valuable resources throughout your career.

Networking is not just about collecting business cards! It is about creating real relationships. Get involved with your campus community, join clubs and organizations, and take opportunities to connect with others. These relationships will support you not only while you are a student but also in your future career. Remember, your network is one of the most valuable assets you will build during your time in college.

Tips for Building a Strong Network:

• Engage in Campus Activities: Join clubs, organizations, and student societies that align with your interests. These are excellent ways to meet people who share your passions and can offer new perspectives.
• Connect with Professors and Alumni: Do not hesitate to reach out to your professors and alumni. They have a wealth of knowledge and experience and are eager to help you succeed.
• Utilize LinkedIn: Start building your professional online presence early. Connect with peers, alumni, recruiters, professors, and professionals in your desired industry. LinkedIn is a powerful tool that can help you stay in touch and discover opportunities throughout your journey.

2. Embrace Experiential Learning

Employers value candidates who have demonstrated their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. This is where internships, co-ops, research projects, and volunteering come into play.

Actively seek out opportunities to gain hands-on experience in your field of study. These experiences not only enhance your education but also make you stand out to future employers. By engaging in experiential learning, you develop critical skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork—that are essential in any career, but also most valued by employers.

Opportunities for Experiential Learning:

• Internships: Look for internships that allow you to work in your chosen field while still in school. Internship experience is invaluable and often leads to job offers upon graduation.
• Research Projects: Get involved in research, whether through your department or independently. Research projects provide a deeper understanding of your field and can lead to publication opportunities, which are highly regarded in many industries.
• Volunteering: Volunteering is a great way to gain experience while giving back to the community. It also shows potential employers that you are committed to making a positive impact in the world.
• Study Abroad and Global Experiences: Consider engaging with international student organizations and attending global events on campus. Expanding your network globally can lead to study abroad opportunities and international internships, which will enrich your cultural understanding and prepare you for a global workforce.

3. Focus Beyond the 4.0 GPA

GPA is only one part of your college experience. Employers today are looking for career ready candidates who are resilient, adaptable, and ready to face challenges directly. They value experience as well as life skills like communication, leadership, and the ability to learn from failure—qualities that often are not shown in an academic transcript.

Be open to trying new things, even if they do not directly affect your GPA. Participate in extracurricular activities, take on leadership roles, and do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Every experience, whether successful or not, is a chance to learn and grow.

Building Resilience and Adaptability:

• Learn from Failure: Failure is a part of life—a powerful teacher. Whether it is a tough exam, a missed opportunity, or a project that did not go as planned, use these experiences as chances to learn. The ability to recover from setbacks is a key trait of successful people.
• Stay Flexible: Life does not always go as planned, and that’s okay. Be open to adjusting your goals and strategies as you grow and learn more about yourself and the world around you.
• Seek Out Challenges: Growth often happens outside of your comfort zone. Whether it is taking on a leadership role, engaging in difficult conversations, or exploring new academic fields, push yourself beyond your comfort zone.
• Financial Literacy: Financial literacy is more than just managing expenses—it is about diversifying income, investing wisely, and mastering budgeting. Explore different income streams, learn about investments, and manage your budget effectively. Understanding student loans, using credit responsibly, and continually educating yourself will set you up for a secure and prosperous future.

4. Leverage Campus Resources

Your tuition covers more than just classes. You can access to a wide range of campus resources like career services, counseling, libraries, and more. Do not wait until challenges arise, so take advantage of these resources early to enrich your college experience and support your success.

Maximizing Campus Resources:

• Career Services: Take advantage of career coaching, resume workshops, job fairs, and networking events offered by your campus career center. These services can help you clarify your career goals and connect you with potential employers. Additionally, they can assist you in exploring various career paths and setting both short-term and long-term goals.
• Counseling and Wellness Centers: College can be stressful, and it is important to prioritize your mental health. Most campuses offer counseling services and wellness programs that provide support for a variety of challenges you might face.
• Digital Literacy: Explore the technological resources available on campus, such as software tools, online databases, and digital learning platforms. Developing strong digital literacy skills is essential in today’s world, not only for academic success but also for maintaining a professional digital presence. Understanding how to effectively use digital tools will set you apart in today's workforce.

If you are a Johns Hopkins University student reading this (thank YOU), make JHU Tools – Imagine | Johns Hopkins University your go-to resource. This webpage is essential for your success—bookmark it and visit regularly!

5. Embrace Innovation and Cultivate an Entrepreneurial Mindset

I wish we had more opportunities during my college years, especially in innovation and entrepreneurship. Today, these skills are more crucial than ever. Many colleges now have innovation and entrepreneurship centers where you can develop ideas, collaborate, and receive mentorship from experienced professionals. Whether you have a startup idea or simply want to think more creatively, these centers provide the tools and network to help you succeed.

You do not need a billion-dollar idea or be a startup founder to benefit from these resources—anyone with a desire to innovate and solve problems can take advantage of what innovation and entrepreneurship centers offer.

Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship:

• Participate in Entrepreneurship Programs: Join entrepreneurship programs or competitions offered by your school. These experiences can teach you how to take an idea from concept to reality.
• Collaborate with Others: Innovation often happens at the intersection of different ideas and perspectives. Work with peers from different fields to bring diverse viewpoints to your projects.
• Take Risks: Do not be afraid to try new things, even if they seem challenging or uncertain. Innovation requires stepping into the unknown and being willing to fail.
• Global Awareness: Consider how your ideas could impact or be adapted to global contexts. Understanding international markets and global issues can help you innovate in ways that have a broader impact.

6. Harness the Power of Technology

You probably noticed that I created the image at the top using GPT. (Edited: Careful usage of these images is important to avoid unintended misrepresentations. Thank you, Jen!) Technology is constantly reshaping how we learn, work, and connect. Being tech-savvy is not just an advantage anymore—it is a non-negotiable necessity. Make empathy with previous generations and embrace technology with gratitude and leverage it to supercharge your studies, master time management, and forge a powerful professional network.

Do not just consume technology—be a creator. Whether by building your own GPT, developing an app, sharing thought leadership online, or experimenting with new digital tools, use technology as a force to be competitive in your field.

Utilizing Technology Effectively:

• Stay Updated: Keep up with the latest technology trends in your field of study. Understanding how new technologies can be applied in your industry will give you a competitive edge.
• Use Digital Tools: Explore digital tools that can help you stay organized, collaborate with others, and manage your projects efficiently.
• Build an Online Presence: Start building your personal brand online through platforms like LinkedIn. Share your work, connect with industry professionals, and engage in discussions relevant to your field. Your online presence can be just as crucial as your in-person interactions, so make sure your social media accounts support, not jeopardize, your efforts!

7. Prioritize Your Well-being

Balancing academics, extracurriculars, and social life can feel overwhelming at times. That is why prioritizing your well-being is essential.

Your health is the foundation of your success. Make time for activities that help you relax and do not hesitate to seek support when needed. A balanced approach to life will help you manage stress and maintain the energy to excel in your studies and beyond.

Tips for Maintaining Well-being:

• Practice Self-Care: Regularly engage in activities that you enjoy and that help you relax, whether it is exercise, meditation, or spending time with friends.
• Seek Help When Needed: Do not hesitate to reach out to counseling services or talk to someone you trust if you are feeling overwhelmed. Mental health is just as important as physical health.
• Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle: Try to balance your academic responsibilities with leisure activities. A well-thought approach will help you avoid burnout and keep you motivated.

8. Think About Your Value Proposition

Ask yourself: What kind of leader do you want to be? What causes resonate with you? Understanding and articulating your value proposition early on is crucial for your success. It is not just about what you can do, but about who you are and what you stand for. Your value proposition is the unique blend of your skills, values, and vision that sets you apart—knowing it sooner will position you to lead with purpose and impact.

The world needs leaders who are not only skilled but also deeply principled. Whether through your academic achievements, community involvement, or the way you treat others, begin building a legacy that reflects your true self and the value you bring.

Creating a Meaningful Legacy:

• Identify the Problem You Want to Solve: Consider what challenges or issues in the world resonate with you. What problem are you passionate about addressing? Identifying the problem you want to solve is a critical part of your value proposition. It gives your efforts direction and purpose, and it allows you to focus your energy on making a meaningful impact.
• Define Your Values: Reflect on what truly matters to you. How do you want to contribute to the world? Your values are the foundation of your value proposition and will guide your decisions and actions.
• Lead with Integrity: Commit to being a leader who is honest, ethical, and respectful in all interactions. Integrity is key to building trust and credibility, both of which are essential to your value proposition.
• Give Back: Part of your value proposition should include how you contribute to the community. Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or leading impactful initiatives, your actions will speak to the legacy you are building.

9. Enjoy the Journey

Keep in mind that college is more than just a path to your future career. The friendships, experiences, and lessons you will gather over the next few years will stay with you forever. While it is important to focus on your studies and career goals, it is just as important to enjoy the journey, try new things, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

College is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Be present, take in all the opportunities that come your way, and remember that these years will pass quickly. Before you know it, you will be looking back with a smile, so make every moment count.

Making the Most of Your College Experience:

• Engage in Campus Life: Join activities and events that spark your interest. They’re not just ways to make friends but also chances to discover new passions and create unforgettable memories.
• Explore New Interests: Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, whether it is picking up a new hobby, taking a class outside your major, or studying abroad. These experiences will enrich your life and open your mind to new perspectives.
• Cherish the Moments: College is a special time in your life. Take a moment to appreciate the experiences, both big and small, that will help shape who you are and who you are becoming.

As the Journey Unfolds—the Future is Yours

Class of 2028, your college experience is not just a steppingstone to a career—it is an opportunity for deep exploration, growth, and the discovery of who you truly are. Embrace failure, take risks, and seize every opportunity that comes your way. Challenge yourself, and always stay true to your values.

The road ahead will be anything but easy. Expect challenges that will test the very core of who you are. Yet, it is in these moments of struggle that you will find the most profound rewards. The future is not something that simply happens to you—it is yours to shape, carve, and command. Believe in yourself, in your unique potential, and in your capacity to make a significant mark in this world.

I want to leave you with my life motto, one that I hope will inspire you on your journey:

"As you start to walk on the way, the way appears.” This powerful Rumi quote, which graced the first page of my dissertation, distills my belief in the transformative power of design thinking. It’s about having the courage to take that first step, to embrace failure as a teacher, and to learn voraciously from every experience. The path may seem daunting, uncertain, even invisible at times, but trust that walking it will reveal its true promise. This journey will build your resilience, arm you with an unshakeable immunity to failure, and fuel your commitment to dream without limits.

And never forget the wisdom of the late Sir Ken Robinson: "If you're not prepared to be wrong, you'll never come up with anything original." This is the essence of the fail furious mindset—a bold and relentless approach to life that will serve you not just well, but magnificently, in the years to come.

So, go start to walk with confidence and audacity, and remember: The future is YOURS!!

What other suggestions or advice do you think would be valuable for the Class of 2028 to hear? Share your thoughts in the comments below!