So, it’s finally happening. Last week, I had my last first day of school and was forced to accept the fact that I am a senior in college. It’s true what they tell you: blink, and it’s almost over. Seriously. I can’t tell you where the time has gone or where I will end up next. But that’s okay because this blog isn’t about that. No. Instead, this blog is about the things I can tell you — the things I’ve learned along the way.
Let’s get to it. My tips, tricks, and tidbits for incoming freshmen who want to make the most of their time on COMM Ave.
- “No” is a complete sentence. It is always okay to say “no.” Your time is a gift, and you don’t have to share it with everyone who asks. You also don’t owe anyone an explanation or reason. Just a “no” should suffice in almost every situation.
- Pay attention to the friends you make along the way. We always hear that networking is one of the most important things you can do to help yourself in your career and internship search. It’s never too early to start building those connections. It can be as easy as sending an email, asking for a coffee chat, or befriending your peers in COM. Check out BU COM Career Services to get more networking tips.
- Don’t wait to get out of the BU Bubble. The BU bubble is a real thing! It’s so important that you don’t let it drown you. Whenever you have the chance, go off-campus and explore the city. You can study at a coffee shop in the North End, grab dinner in Seaport, or visit a bookstore in Cambridge. Boston has so much to offer, and it’s important to explore while you still can.
- Always shoot your shot. It never actually hurts to just shoot your shot. Send the email; apply for that internship; volunteer even when it’s scary. Some of the best advice I ever got was from a COM professor who shared her motto with me: “If someone has to win, why can’t it be me?” That question now lives rent-free in my mind, and I’d beg you to ask yourself the same thing anytime you’re in doubt.
- Do ~all~ the things you can while still taking care of yourself. I cannot emphasize enough how quickly time will go by. I beg you to take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Obviously, you should prioritize your mental health and schoolwork before anything else. Beyond that, however, I would advise you to try saying “yes” to as many things as you can. College is a time to stretch yourself. So, try new things and take every mistake as a learning opportunity. Everything will be okay.
