Build up your network of contacts now to help establish your career in the future.
Class work can be all-consuming while in college. An essay due this week understandably receives more attention than a midterm next month. Nevertheless, college students should consider their long-term careers goals, even while handling today's affairs. Getting to know people and touting an impressive skill will help them succeed in their occupational futures.
Establishing a Network
While in college, build up a roster of positive connections. Socializing with fellow pupils is a nice way to start, but professional contacts should also be made. Get to know your professors and advisers closely. Locate an official organization for your projected career or current major; if you are in advertising, for instance, you might join the Public Relations Student Society of America. Facebook and Twitter are fun, but crafting a LinkedIn account can link you with potential job leads. Networking like this might help ease the path to creating your ideal career.
Financial Success
Aim for monetary health, both now and for the future. The college years provide an excellent opportunity to instill strong financial habits, like frugality and regularly checking a credit score. Speaking of such, a score goes up only by establishing positive credit history. While in college, use your credit card sparingly, being sure to repay the debt as soon as possible. Starting an emergency financial fund is also an intelligent step; monthly automatic transfers from a checking account to one for savings can make this easy.
The Grad School Question
Grad school can potentially make for a stepping stone into an enjoyable, high-level career. As you proceed toward receiving a diploma, contemplate this experience of additional education. Graduate school sports both advantages and pitfalls. It provides the opportunity to teach, conduct satisfying research and potentially travel the world. What is more, graduating from grad school can heighten your earning power. Up to seven more years of your life could be consumed by enrolling, though. The stressful grad school environment can challenge relationships and other commitments. Also, grad school graduates may be turned away from certain jobs for being overqualified, particularly during a tough economy.
Finding Your Passion, and Beyond
A university can function as a classic backdrop to consider your life's calling. Participating in manifold activities and communication with mentors can help narrow down what field or discipline is best for you, but pinning down a passion should not be the sole component of a long-term career plan. You should also focus on developing a noteworthy skill that is rare or valuable, such as gaining fluency in foreign language, or excelling in your major, be it mathematics or literature. Such experiences can help make you more marketable, and potentially increase your likelihood of landing a rewarding position once in the world away from campus.
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