Words of Wisdom for New Graduates

It’s that time of year again…graduation! What a momentous time it is – celebrating achievements of friends and family members. Let me tell you, after years of hard work, graduation is an accomplishment worth celebrating. So, congratulations to all the new grads out there! Here are some words of wisdom from me to you:
 
Stay Humble:
​As a new graduate, it is easy to get lost in dollar signs. Trust me, I get it – those student loans are real and they are breathing down your neck! If this sounds familiar, it may be easy to consider working for companies you have no connection to but can see yourself making the big bucks there. It is important to remember, money isn’t everything. Make sure you consider the companies values and mission, their benefits package, and how their path could lead you where you want to go!

Get out of the house (or the office!):
Don’t let work consume your life! It’s always important to make time for yourself, your family and your friends – but as a new grad, it’s also important to have new experiences and make the most of those early years of your career. Get out and try something new – travel, join a new organization, join a work league and meet new people. Whatever it is, just get out and about and remember it’s for your own well-being!

Stay involved with your school:
You have a shiny new diploma to add to your collection from a school you spent some time at. Whether 2 years or 4 years, that place holds some significance to you. Keep that in mind as you get older – come back for homecoming, buy from a fundraiser of an old student organization you loved and give back when you can!

Pass along your wisdom:
You learned a lot (some more useful things than others), but you learned nonetheless. Why not take some of what you learned back to your old stomping grounds. If you are asked to return as a guest speaker to a classroom – say yes. If you are asked to participate in a panel for your career center – say yes. Just spread that wealth of knowledge you have built and worked so hard for to others who need to hear your story.

Never stop learning:
Don’t get complacent! It’s not always those who graduated at the top of their class or had the best offers at the best companies that can be our only definitions of success. Those who adapt and are eager to learn are those who are most successful. Pick up a book or an article related to your industry. Attend conferences. Expand your network and learn from new people.  You’ll thank me later. 

By: Kayla Portwood