By Mandi Mladenoff, Staff Writer
As a junior, with only one semester of “regular” college life under my belt, I’ve never regretted choosing to go to Susquehanna. My parents ask me frequently if I wished I’d chosen another one of my options for college. Despite its faults, Susquehanna has given me a great education and opportunities to grow myself in my interests. However, there are a few things I’d go back and do differently between my first semester and now.
Firstly, I’d have told myself to get involved earlier in clubs and organizations that have to do with my academics.
I’m naturally introverted. I bawled when my parents left on move-in day first-year. I knew I was going to have a hard time meeting people and making friends, so I immediately threw myself into clubs that had to do with my hobbies: InterVarsity, Gospel Choir, and Chorale to name a few. My tactics proved to work well because I had a solid group of people that I could talk to, spend time with, and get to know further. Being in these organizations gave me something to do outside of academics, while not overwhelming myself while I was still getting used to college level classes.
What I didn’t join were organizations within the communications department.
I don’t have a valid reason why I waited until junior year to truly start building my resume and experience with things that would actually benefit me for my desired career. I figured I’d have plenty of time to get involved and start those connections. What I’ve learned: it’s always better to start earlier. Simply taking classes in the communications department has lengthened my list of skills and abilities tremendously from high school.
The things I’ve learned are invaluable, but don’t compare to the lessons I’ve learned from working in an environment like The Quill. I was hesitant to get involved because, though writing has always been a strong suit of mine, I never saw myself writing for a job. I’ve learned that I could see myself doing this for a long time. Working with people, the community, and representing a voice for others is a rewarding experience.
Another thing I wish I’d done differently was to start looking at internships and job opportunities sooner. I just recently had a revelation that I’m graduating in a year.
Current seniors will probably consider my concern laughable because they’re in a much tighter scenario, but the impending deadline exists for all of us. The deadline to figure out what you want to do outside of college and get on the daunting task of finding work or a plan. My best comfort right now is that some seniors I’ve talked to have no idea either. It’s the same feeling from high school all over again! My advice: use your resources on campus and get started as early as your first semester.
Develop strong partnerships with your professors; when it comes down to it, they could be a great connection to employers. Go to the Career Development Center! They are actually really good at their jobs.
Lastly, I’d have told myself not to be afraid to lean on people more. Your friends may come from the least expected places, and professors may have profound effects on your life. Be open to all that college has to offer and dive in as soon as possible. Utilize the new and improved CAPS center; you don’t have to battle the stress alone.
If not everyone, at least one other person is feeling the same way you are. It’s okay to change your mind, get settled, and change it again. Ride the waves as they pass (they will pass) and you’ll survive college just fine. No regrets and no what ifs.
