Your college classes, college major and that shiny piece of paper with your name on it (ie. diploma) don’t define you. Anyone can learn how to artfully cram for a test, and memorize countless theories, statistics and historical events.
For those who know me, I know you are probably shocked I wrote that. I went to college and got my degree in journalism from the University of Missouri. Go Tigers! I wouldn’t take away any of my college experiences. As cliche as it sounds, I made some of my best friends and learned the most about myself from those four years in Columbia.
However, learning doesn’t stop when you get your diploma. In fact, the best professionals in my opinion are lifelong students.
The real professional world is different than college. It’s about applying yourself and getting shit done. It’s about embracing trial and error, experimentation, having a blue collar work ethic and learning from failures.
- “Keep learning about anything and everything. Don’t settle. If you’re smartest person in a room, you’re in the wrong room.” –Matt Nowak
- “Every day is an audition. Work hard to make a good first impression and then continue to impress.” – Rachel Perkins
- “Learn how to make a budget and stick to it. Start now that things might be a little tight…this way when more money starts coming in you will know how to manage it in a smart way.” – Mo Morales Lisac
I totally agree and live by your advice to “keep learning”. It’s so easy to do a quick search online or connect with others who have more experience than you. I have a few other pieces of advice for new grads:
– Say yes whenever you can. You’re young: you’ll figure out a way to get
it all done. Some opportunities only come around once, and by the time you hash
out all the benefits, it might be too late.
– Follow your passion. Money will follow. Don’t settle for something you
don’t believe in, but don’t worry if you don’t know what you really love right away.
– Be nice, be real, and give back. Help those that need it ””
you never know when the roles might be reversed or when you might need to call in a favour.
– Never say “I can’t” ”” if you can’t do it, someone else will be there who
can and will take your place. There’s no excuse for ignorance anymore. If you
really don’t know something, Google it.
Good luck to all the new grads out there! You’re going to be awesome 🙂
lil_tea Great advice! Specifically, the never say, “I can’t.” Saying “I can’t” is the equivalent of saying I give up. If you really don’t know something, take the time to learn it.