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In North Carolina, we have quite a few major universities, as well as many community colleges, and I’ve been noticing more students around town lately! Higher education can improve economic mobility and change lives. Today, I thought it would be fun to share 5 tips that I have for freshmen or students considering college:
1. Get an internship
My junior year of college, I started the search for an internship that was related to my major of business administration with a concentration in finance. I interviewed at a few places and was so happy when I was offered an internship position with an amazing company right down the street from school. Having this internship allowed me to gain a lot of experience and knowledge about the area of finance that I was most interested in. I was able to see if working in this field was the right fit for me, and if it was where I saw myself in my career when I graduated from college. I absolutely loved my internship, and this is actually the same company where I’m working today.
2. Network
Networking is key when you’re in college, and it’s important to connect with other students, teachers, and faculty. You never know what might happen, and that connection could help you land an internship or job later.
3. Consider a college in North Carolina
Like I mentioned above, there are many universities and community colleges across North Carolina. A number of the colleges in North Carolina are also in rural counties, which gives opportunities for everyone across the state. Getting a degree can truly change your life, give you economic mobility, and give you opportunities that you wouldn’t have otherwise. The truth is that most jobs these days require a degree, training, or certificates from a community college or university, so going to college is important for your success.
North Carolina Higher Ed Works Foundation is working to keep North Carolina higher education systems well-funded, affordable and accessible so that North Carolinians can get valuable higher education credentials. There is a mandate in North Carolina that requires the General Assembly to provide all citizens with affordable higher education. We are one of three states to do so, which is hard to believe. Register for the weekly newsletter and connect with Higher Ed Works on Twitter to stay informed.
North Carolina Higher Ed Works. It is a strong economic driver. We must keep North Carolina higher education systems well-funded, affordable and accessible so that North Carolinians can get valuable higher education credentials. We must be diligent in our efforts because our systems are at risk.
4. Attend career fairs
The business department at North Carolina State University in Raleigh had career fairs each spring and fall. This was an opportunity to learn about opportunities for internships, jobs, and co-ops. I think it’s important to start attending career fairs as soon as you can, and make sure to dress to impress and bring many copies of your resume.
5. Join a club or Greek life
When I was in college, I was a part of the finance club and the University Scholars Program. I loved being a part of these two organizations, and there are many opportunities to join a club or a sorority/fraternity that challenges you or celebrates your diversity.
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What are your tips for freshmen?