By Sofia Aparicio-Gallagher
I reflect on my last four years as I prepare to walk down the stage and receive my diploma. I have learned many valuable lessons at UT, both academic and personal. Underclassmen can learn from my mistakes and accomplishments to make the most of their college experience.
UT has given me the tools to succeed post-grad, as I have flourished in this environment. I began my journey in 2020 and am graduating in May. Four years of hard work and determination have paid off. I have five essential tips that will help other students succeed.
Tip number one: Get involved. This tip might seem cliche, but it is the most important one. You get what you put into your college experience. So many clubs and organizations on campus are for all interests. Fraternity and sorority life, club sports, cybersecurity club, hammock club, Her Campus, and Live Well UT are just a few of the 221 organizations on campus.
Meeting people with the same interests is critical. Most clubs do not have a long-term commitment or obligation. Try many out and see what you like. Being so involved on campus kept me at UT for these four years. I would not have made long-term friendships without my sorority and on-campus jobs.
Tip number two: Prioritize yourself. College is a significant translation and can be stressful regardless of your major. Spending all night studying and working on projects leads to a fast burnout. Staying organized and having a planner helped me get through the busy parts of the semester.
Organize your assignment due dates early on in the semester to prevent procrastination. I always tried to remember; you are your biggest supporter, so you need to do what is right for yourself. Do not worry about FOMO. There will always be another party or hangout.
Tip number three, find an internship. Find a paid internship in the area around junior year. I had two internships in my four years; they were both great experiences. Internships help you figure out what you like and what you dislike.
After working 9-5 in an office at the computer all day, I realized I did not want a career like that. After graduation, I applied for a desk-like job without my internships. Finding the internship is the hardest part, but Handshake and LinkedIn are great resources.
Tip number four: Connect with students and professors in your major. I am an advertising and public relations major, and networking is part of my job. Connecting with classmates and having their contact information or social media accounts will help in the future.
Finding a professor or mentor in the area can also be very useful. People love to talk about their jobs and current projects, so observe as much as possible. These connections will help you once you join the workforce.
Tip number five: Communicate with roommates. Most UT students do not have the luxury of living alone. My biggest piece of advice would be to set boundaries and rules early in the semester. When problems arise mid-semester, it’s hard to go back and change the mindset. Having a cleaning schedule or chores for common areas will keep things organized.
Even though being friendly with roommates is nice, you do not have to be best friends. It is okay to be roommates and respect each other’s space. My last advice is not to let resentment build up over minor issues. Address things immediately because waiting for a solution never works.
Enjoy your years at UT. Time flies, and before you know it, it will be graduation. Make the most of every opportunity and have fun.
